Nigerian pilgrims performing the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia will be served culturally appropriate and nutritious meals under a strict monitoring system implemented by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Alhaji Abdullahi Kabir, head of NAHCON's Medina Feeding Committee, disclosed this during an inspection tour of seven catering facilities contracted to feed over 17,000 Nigerian pilgrims who have already arrived in the holy city of Madinah.

According to a statement released by the Committee's Public Affairs Officer, Malam Ahmad Muazu, NAHCON has implemented comprehensive oversight responsibilities to ensure quality in its feeding system for pilgrims.

"A wide range of inspections has been carried out to ensure quality control measures beginning with the assessment of food ingredients to ensure they meet strict nutritional standards before preparation," Kabir explained.

The commission has mandated thorough scrutiny of all packaged food items, including spices and preserved goods, to verify they have not expired. NAHCON has emphasized its zero tolerance for expired food items and corruption in the catering services.

In a notable move to maintain food quality, NAHCON has also mandated the exclusive use of natural ingredients while strictly banning artificial flavor enhancers and preservatives. This measure aims to preserve the nutritional value and authenticity of traditional Nigerian dishes served to pilgrims.

"Additionally, inspectors verify strict adherence to NAHCON's mandate for natural ingredients, prohibiting artificial flavour enhancers and preservatives that could compromise the nutritional value or authenticity of traditional Nigerian dishes," Kabir emphasized.

The initiative represents NAHCON's commitment to ensuring Nigerian pilgrims receive high-quality, culturally appropriate meals throughout their stay in the holy city as they perform one of Islam's five pillars of faith.