Intending pilgrims from Bauchi State have been reminded of the critical importance of protecting their Nusuk cards while in Saudi Arabia, as losing this document could lead to deportation. The Executive Secretary of the Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Imam Abdurrahman Ibrahim Idris, shared this warning during a press briefing at his office in Bauchi.
The Nusuk card, issued free of charge by Saudi authorities for the 2025/2026 Hajj season, serves as both a digital and physical identification tool. It acts as an official permit granting pilgrims access to Makkah, the Grand Mosque, and other holy sites such as Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Additionally, the card facilitates essential services like accommodation and transportation, and can be managed through the Nusuk platform.
Imam Idris also announced a schedule change for the first batch of pilgrims. Departure, originally set for 8:29 pm, has been moved to 4:50 pm on May 7 due to operational adjustments. Screening procedures will begin after Governor Bala Mohammed delivers the farewell address.
Pilgrims were further advised to secure their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) to prevent financial loss. Additionally, they are required to pay for the Hadaya (sacrificial offering) through Ja’iz Bank, with the cost estimated at around N180,000.
Security measures have also been tightened: relatives of pilgrims are urged to avoid parking vehicles at the Hajj camp and airport, as only designated areas are now accessible. The inaugural flight will carry a total of 485 pilgrims, comprising 323 from Bauchi State and 162 from Plateau State.