Hajj Commission suspends pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia over Coronavirus

 

Following the temporary suspension of Umrah by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a precautionary measure against the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has suspended all arrangements by intending pilgrims from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia for Umrah.

This is just as the first case of Coronavirus involving an Italian citizen has been confirmed in Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial capital with a population of over 20 million people.

A statement by the Lagos State Commissioner of Health, Prof Akin Abayomi, Friday, said the case is an Italian citizen who entered Nigeria on the 25th of February from Milan, Italy for a brief business visit.

As of yesterday, 48 countries had recorded 2,800 deaths from 82,164 confirmed cases. China, where the pandemic broke out lost 2,750 people.

Spokesperson of the hajj commission, Fatima Usara, advised all stakeholders and people who already have visas for the pilgrimage, in a statement, “to comply with the directive and await further instructions” from the Saudi authorities.

READ: Nigeria records first Coronavirus case as Italian tests positive

The statement said: “NAHCON hereby draws attention of intending pilgrims from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or to visit the Prophet’s mosque in Madinah to suspend the arrangement until further notice.

“The COVID-19 has recorded many fatalities that have forced some countries with confirmed cases to close down schools and other social gatherings.

“NAHCON identifies with this courageous step by Saudi Arabia and affirms its commitment and cooperation in the interest of world Muslims and humanity in general. This measure was taken in accordance with approved international standards towards curtailing spread of the disease.

“Consequently, NAHCON cautions Nigerian pilgrims for Umrah to note that this suspension is effective on those who have already been issued travel visas and about to embark on the journey as well as for those planning to do so in the nearest future.

“NAHCON urges all stakeholders to comply with the directive and await further instructions from the Kingdom’s authorities.”