The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reopened its portal for pilgrims’ data capturing and grouping for Nigeria, barely 48 hours after the global closure of the Nusuk Masar platform.
The development followed diplomatic efforts by the Nigerian government, as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tugga, on the instruction of Vice President Kashim Shettima, appealed to Saudi authorities to grant Nigeria a special extension to complete the data-capturing process.
Saudi authorities reportedly approved the request, allowing Nigerian officials and Hajj managers additional time to finalize the documentation of intending pilgrims.
However, it was gathered that the extension is strictly limited, and no further requests will be entertained after its expiration. The Saudi authorities are said to have emphasized the need for the speedy completion of the process.
In response, the commission urged Hajj managers across the country to work around the clock to ensure that all required data is uploaded within the stipulated timeframe.
A circular issued on the matter directed Hajj agencies to “complete and finalize all required pilgrims’ data as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute issues.”
