With over 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims already in Madinah for the 2025 Hajj, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reinforced its commitment to pilgrim welfare through a rigorous oversight system that ensured the consistent quality of its extensive feeding operations delivering breakfast and dinner daily to each pilgrim.
The Commission’s Madinah Feeding Committee, led by Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, conducted regular inspections of the seven contracted catering facilities, maintaining vigilant supervision as the large-scale feeding program unfolds in real time.
“The continual monitoring of every aspect of the feeding program demonstrates an institutional commitment that extends beyond mere sustenance to encompass dignity and cultural respect,” said Alhaji Kabir.
As part of their ongoing quality assurance efforts, committee members conduct systematic evaluations of all seven kitchens Africana Home Restaurant, Amjad Alghraa, Al-Andalus, Mawasim Khairat, Na’a Azad, Zowar Muktara, and Kabala Catering. Each facility is assessed against stringent criteria covering sanitation, equipment functionality, and staff performance.
The inspections extended beyond basic health standards, with a focus on workforce composition. Each kitchen is mandated to employ Nigerian cooks and support staff, ensuring culturally authentic meal preparation and creating employment opportunities for Nigerian nationals during the Hajj season.
Inspectors thoroughly assessed the quality of all food ingredients, verifying that raw materials meet nutritional standards and enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for expired products. There is also strict compliance with NAHCON’s directive to use only natural ingredients, banning artificial additives and preservatives to protect the authenticity and nutritional value of traditional Nigerian dishes.
During a critical meeting with food service providers, Madinah Coordinator Alhaji Abdulkadir Oloyin addressed concerns regarding packaging standards.
“The use of substandard containers is categorically unacceptable,” Oloyin declared, mandating uniform packaging to preserve food safety and uphold the dignity of the dining experience.
In addition to technical requirements, the committee also emphasized cultural authenticity, insisting on strict adherence to NAHCON’s approved Nigerian menu.
As the Hajj entered its more intensive phases, the methodical and proactive approach of the Madinah Feeding Committee serves as a model of effective welfare management for Nigerian pilgrims.
