Pilgrims to receive nutritious meals under strict oversight in Madinah — NAHCON
Over 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims currently in Madinah for the 2025 Hajj will be served nutritious, culturally appropriate meals under a strictly monitored food system, according to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
This assurance was given on Friday, May 16 by Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, head of the Commission’s Medina Feeding Committee, during an inspection tour of the seven contracted catering outfits responsible for feeding the pilgrims.
A statement issued by the committee’s Public Affairs Officer, Malam Ahmad Muazu, noted that the Commission has activated intensive oversight protocols to ensure that every meal served meets high nutritional and cultural standards.
“Over 17,000 pilgrims from Nigeria have already arrived in Madinah for the 2025 Hajj,” Kabir said. “NAHCON has implemented its oversight responsibilities to ensure quality in its feeding system.”
Kabir explained that the inspection began at the ingredient level, where food items such as spices and preserved goods are being screened for quality and expiration. The Commission, he stressed, has zero tolerance for expired products or corrupt practices.
“Every packaged food item is scrutinized to ensure they are not expired. NAHCON maintains zero tolerance for expired food items and corruption,” he stated.
In a further push for healthier, more traditional meals, NAHCON has banned the use of artificial flavour enhancers and preservatives, mandating that only natural ingredients be used in the preparation of meals.
“Inspectors verify strict adherence to NAHCON’s mandate for natural ingredients, prohibiting artificial flavour enhancers and preservatives that could compromise the nutritional value or authenticity of traditional Nigerian dishes,” Kabir emphasized.
