By Hudu Yakubu Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) contingent participating in this year’s Muslims Pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia has successfully gathered alongside millions of other pilgrims from around the world to observe the Arafat Prayers, one of the fundamental rituals of Hajj in Islam.
Departing from Mina early in the morning, the FCT contingent arrived at Mount Arafat, where they engaged in this significant rite of the pilgrimage.
The Director of Information and Communication of the FCTA, Mohammed Sule Hazat, issued a statement highlighting the close monitoring of the FCT contingent by Mallam Bashir Muhammad, the Chairman of the FCT Ministerial Team for the 2023 Hajj.
Muhammad urged the pilgrims to pray for Nigeria and its new leadership. He also emphasized the importance of praying for peace to prevail in the country, as well as for the efforts of security agencies in combating criminal activities like terrorism and banditry.
In addition, the Chairman encouraged the FCT pilgrims to pray for the country’s growth, development, and economic prosperity.
Muhammad expressed his appreciation to the National Hajj Commission for their prompt response in addressing the issue of inadequate tents for the operation, which is currently being resolved by the Saudi Arabian authorities.
The Chairman commended the FCT contingent for their exemplary behavior, as they are seen as ambassadors representing Nigeria while in the Holy Land.
Muhammad revealed that preparations are underway to ensure a smooth transition of the FCT pilgrims from Arafat to Mudzalifa later in the evening.