The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reiterated its commitment to upholding high standards in meal preparation and delivery for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj. In a statement released in Abuja on Friday by the commission’s Public Affairs Officer, Malam Ahmad Muazu, the commission emphasized its resolve to maintain quality and dignity in the feeding programme.
According to the statement, the Head of NAHCON’s Medina Feeding Committee, Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, disclosed that over 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims have already arrived in Medina. To cater to their needs, the commission has launched a comprehensive inspection and oversight system across all contracted catering facilities.
During an extensive inspection of the seven designated kitchens in Medina, Kabir emphasized that the committee’s inspectors rigorously assess every food ingredient used in meal preparation. This includes checking for nutritional value, confirming the freshness and expiration dates of all packaged items, and ensuring that only natural ingredients are used—strictly prohibiting artificial flavour enhancers and preservatives.
“These inspections are not a one-time event,” Kabir noted. “They are conducted on a recurring basis to ensure continuous compliance with NAHCON’s strict standards. Our goal is not just to feed, but to preserve the nutritional integrity and cultural authenticity of Nigerian dishes.”
The inspected catering facilities include Africana Home Restaurant, Amjad Alghraa, Al-Andalus, Mawasim Khairat, Na’a Azad, Zowar Muktara, and Kabala Catering. These facilities are evaluated based on several criteria, including sanitation practices, kitchen equipment functionality, staff performance, and overall hygiene.
A key requirement in NAHCON’s contract with the caterers is the employment of Nigerian cooks and support staff. This not only ensures meals remain culturally authentic but also provides job opportunities for Nigerians during the Hajj season.
During a review meeting with food service providers, the Madinah Coordinator, Alhaji Abdulkadir Oloyin, addressed the importance of maintaining packaging quality. He stressed that the use of substandard food containers is unacceptable and directed that all food be served in uniform packaging that ensures food safety and upholds the dignity of the pilgrims.
Through its ongoing oversight and quality assurance measures, NAHCON affirms its institutional commitment to serving Nigerian pilgrims with respect, cultural sensitivity, and uncompromised food quality throughout the 2025 Hajj season.
