A Nigerian pilgrim from Plateau State, Hajiya Zainab, has been widely commended after returning $5,000 (approximately ₦7.93 million) she found at the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca to its rightful owner, a Russian pilgrim.
The incident occurred during the ongoing 2025 Hajj pilgrimage when Hajiya Zainab discovered a lost wallet near the Kaaba. Without hesitation, she reported the discovery to the relevant authorities, who successfully identified and contacted the Russian pilgrim.
In a now-viral video, the Russian was seen emotionally counting the returned cash while expressing heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian pilgrim.
An official of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), present in the video, applauded Hajiya Zainab’s act, described it as a “testament to the good character of Nigerian pilgrims.”
“This act of honesty reflects the true teachings of Islam and the values we uphold as Nigerians. We are proud of Hajiya Zainab,” the NAHCON official said.
This is not the first time Nigerian pilgrims have demonstrated such rare honesty during the Hajj exercise.
In 2024, Abba Limawa, a 52-year-old pilgrim from Dutse Local Government Area of Jigawa State, was also lauded after returning a waist bag filled with money which he found on his way to pray at the Grand Mosque.
Similarly, Muhammad Na’Allah, a pilgrim from Gumi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, returned €1,750 he found at the Haram to NAHCON for onward delivery to its owner.
These acts continue to strengthen Nigeria’s image globally and highlighted the moral integrity of its citizens during religious obligations.
