Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their long-standing bilateral ties and commitment to improved pilgrimage administration as the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs hosted the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah in Abuja.
The Foreign Affairs Minister welcomed the Saudi delegation and said the visit was evidence of the long-lasting friendship, brotherhood, and cooperation between the two nations, which are based on mutual respect, a common faith, and close people-to-people ties. Welcoming the Saudi delegation, the foreign affairs minister described the visit as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship, brotherhood, and cooperation between both countries, anchored on shared faith, mutual respect, and strong people-to-people relations.
He expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, warm regards to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, and Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, highlighting Nigeria’s determination to deepen the friendly ties between the two fraternal countries.
The minister emphasised that collaboration in the management of the Hajj and Umrah continues to be a fundamental aspect of Nigeria-Saudi relations, demonstrating a shared obligation to safeguard pilgrims’ well-being, dignity, and spiritual fulfilment.
He praised Saudi Arabia for the extensive investments and reforms made to improve pilgrims’ safety, effectiveness, and overall experience, characterising them as proof of visionary leadership and a strong dedication to the Ummah.
Nigeria’s resolute actions to address persistent consular issues related to Umrah visa overstays were communicated to the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah during the meeting.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs revealed that, as a long-term solution to the problem, the federal government, led by President Tinubu, has authorised a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Asfaar.ng.
He stated that the partnership has already been approved by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and that President Tinubu first discussed and approved the initiative during his official visit to Riyadh, after consulting with Saudi authorities.
He emphasised that the project would benefit both nations and asked the Saudi minister to support the initiative and give him a quick tour of the facility.
In order to enhance coordination, handle operational issues, and investigate new areas of cooperation targeted at enhancing service delivery and pilgrimage management for Nigerian pilgrims, the minister reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to working closely with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and other pertinent institutions.
Both parties conveyed optimism that the interaction would produce useful results and strengthen the already strong ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
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