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Nusuk Policy and the New Face of Hajj: How Saudi Arabia is Restoring Order, Safety and Spiritual Comfort in the Holy Cities

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2 months ago

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By: Lamara Garba

For decades, the annual Hajj pilgrimage has remained one of the largest religious gatherings on earth, attracting millions of Muslims from every continent to the holy cities of Makkah and Madina in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. While the pilgrimage is spiritually uplifting, it has also historically come with enormous logistical challenges, including overcrowding, congestion, heat-related emergencies, and at times tragic stampedes within the holy sites.

But this year’s Hajj exercise has introduced a different reality — one defined by orderliness, effective crowd management, improved security, and a smoother spiritual experience for pilgrims. At the center of this transformation is the introduction of the Nusuk policy by the Saudi authorities, a digital regulatory framework that has significantly reduced illegal participation in Hajj and restored sanity to the holy sites.

The policy, introduced through the Nusuk digital application, ensures that only duly registered and approved pilgrims are granted access to the sacred rituals and locations associated with Hajj. From visa processing to accommodation, transportation, identification, and access to the holy sites, every pilgrim must now be fully captured within the Nusuk system.

Anyone not registered on the platform is automatically denied access to key locations including the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina, Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat.

This decisive policy appears to have achieved what many observers once considered impossible — a massive reduction in overcrowding during Hajj.

For years, one of the major concerns during Hajj was the infiltration of undocumented pilgrims, especially illegal immigrants and unregistered worshippers from neighboring countries and parts of Africa. Many entered the holy cities without official Hajj permits, thereby overstretching facilities and contributing heavily to congestion around the sacred sites.

The situation often made movement difficult for genuine pilgrims who had spent huge sums of money to perform the religious obligation through approved channels.

However, this year, the story is remarkably different.

Our correspondent, who is currently participating in the pilgrimage, observed a calmer and more organized atmosphere both in Madinatul Munawwara and within the precincts of the Grand Mosque of Ka’aba.

Unlike previous years when worshippers struggled through human traffic for hours before getting access to prayer spaces or performing Tawaf around the Holy Ka’aba, pilgrims now experience relative ease in conducting their acts of worship.

In what would have seemed unimaginable in the past, this reporter was able to complete the Tawaf — the circumambulation around the Ka’aba — within just 30 minutes due to reduced congestion and improved movement coordination by Saudi officials.

The atmosphere around the Mataf area was notably less chaotic. Pilgrims moved with greater comfort, fewer physical struggles, and better concentration during prayers and supplications.

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Many pilgrims who spoke with our correspondent expressed satisfaction over the new arrangements, describing the Nusuk policy as a timely intervention that has enhanced both safety and spirituality during Hajj.

A pilgrim from Kano State, Alhaji Musa Abdullahi, said the difference between this year and previous pilgrimages was “clear and undeniable.”

“In the past, people pushed one another because of overcrowding. Sometimes elderly pilgrims suffered greatly. But this year, movement is easier and security personnel are more effective because they know exactly who is authorized to be here,” he explained.

Another Nigerian pilgrim, Hajiya Zainab Suleiman, described her experience in Madina as peaceful and spiritually fulfilling.

“You can now enter the mosque, pray peacefully and leave without unnecessary pressure. Before now, some people spent hours struggling just to find space. The Nusuk arrangement has brought discipline,” she stated.

A pilgrim from Ghana, Ibrahim Mustapha, also commended the Saudi authorities for what he called a “technology-driven success.”

“The authorities deserve appreciation. This system has reduced illegal entries and helped genuine pilgrims enjoy their worship. You can feel the difference immediately you arrive,” he noted.

Beyond comfort, the policy is also being viewed as a major safety achievement.

Hajj history has witnessed several unfortunate incidents linked to overcrowding and uncontrolled human movement. Managing millions of pilgrims within confined spaces under extreme temperatures has always remained a daunting responsibility for Saudi authorities.

But by tightening access through digital verification and restricting movement only to registered pilgrims, the Kingdom appears to have significantly minimized the risks associated with uncontrolled crowds.

Security personnel stationed across the holy sites now rely heavily on electronic verification systems linked to the Nusuk application. Pilgrims without valid permits are quickly identified and prevented from accessing sensitive areas.

The policy has equally improved transportation coordination, accommodation management, feeding arrangements, and emergency response services.

Observers believe the new system represents a major shift in how modern Hajj administration will be conducted in the future.

Saudi Arabia has in recent years invested heavily in digital technology, smart crowd-control systems, artificial intelligence, surveillance networks, and infrastructure expansion aimed at improving the pilgrimage experience.

The Nusuk initiative appears to be another major milestone in that direction.

Despite initial concerns in some quarters that the strict regulations could inconvenience intending pilgrims, many now believe the long-term benefits outweigh the challenges.

Religious scholars and Hajj administrators argue that preserving human life and ensuring pilgrims perform their religious obligations safely should remain the top priority.

Indeed, for many pilgrims, the reduced crowd this year has brought back the true essence of worship — devotion, reflection, patience, and spiritual connection without the constant fear of suffocation or physical struggle.

Inside the Grand Mosque, worshippers now spend more time in contemplation rather than battling human congestion. Elderly pilgrims and women especially appear to benefit from the calmer environment.

At Mina and Arafat, where overcrowding traditionally reaches alarming levels during peak Hajj periods, officials have also maintained tighter control of movement using the Nusuk verification process.

Many pilgrims interviewed described the exercise as one of the smoothest Hajj operations witnessed in recent years.

While no system is entirely perfect, the Saudi authorities appear to have demonstrated that effective technology, strict enforcement, and proper planning can substantially improve one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.

As millions of Muslims continue to arrive for the sacred rites, one message is becoming increasingly clear: the era of uncontrolled and illegal Hajj participation may gradually be coming to an end.

And for genuine pilgrims seeking spiritual fulfillment in peace, safety and dignity, that may be one of the most important developments in modern Hajj administration.

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Opinion

Rabe Darma’s First 100 Days: Laying the Foundation for Nigeria’s Housing Renaissance

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3 days ago

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August 5, 2026

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By Ahmad Danyaro
Housing is more than bricks and mortar. It is about dignity, economic opportunity, social stability, and national development. Countries that have transformed their housing sectors have not merely built homes; they have built systems that make homeownership accessible, urban development sustainable, and investments attractive. Nigeria has long struggled to achieve these ideals, but the first 100 days of Engr. Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma as Honourable Minister of Housing and Urban Development have offered encouraging signs that a new era may be unfolding.
Since assuming office on 27 April , Dr. Darma has approached Nigeria’s housing challenge with a clear understanding that lasting solutions require more than commissioning housing estates. Rather, they demand comprehensive reforms that address the structural barriers responsible for decades of inadequate housing delivery. His administration has focused on land administration, investment promotion, institutional coordination, industry regulation, and social inclusion—areas that form the bedrock of a sustainable housing sector.
One of the defining initiatives of his first 100 days is the proposed nationwide Social Housing Programme, designed to extend affordable housing to all 774 Local Government Areas of the federation. The programme represents one of the most ambitious efforts to decentralise housing delivery in Nigeria’s history. If effectively implemented, it has the potential not only to reduce the country’s huge housing deficit but also to stimulate local economies through construction activities, job creation, and infrastructure development.
Equally significant is the programme’s emphasis on social inclusion. By prioritising women, children, victims of insecurity, internally displaced persons, and communities affected by natural disasters, the Minister has demonstrated that housing policy must also serve as social policy. In a nation grappling with displacement caused by insecurity and climate-related disasters, such an approach reflects both compassion and strategic thinking.
Within his first 100 days, Dr. Darma has also underscored the indispensable role of private-sector participation in addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit. Recognising that government resources alone cannot meet the nation’s housing needs, he has actively engaged international investors and development partners. His discussions with Japan’s CHODAI Company Limited and other prospective partners signal Nigeria’s renewed commitment to attracting global expertise, innovative technology, and long-term financing into the housing and infrastructure sectors.
Across the world, successful housing programmes are anchored on strong Public-Private Partnerships. By assuring investors that Nigeria remains open for business and committed to creating an enabling environment, the Minister is laying the groundwork for increased investment capable of accelerating housing delivery and modern urban development.
Perhaps the most transformative aspect of his reform agenda is the renewed focus on land administration.
For decades, access to land has remained one of the greatest obstacles to affordable housing in Nigeria. Lengthy registration processes, insecure titles, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and ownership disputes have discouraged investment while placing homeownership beyond the reach of many citizens. Dr. Darma’s commitment to the Nigerian Land Titling, Registration and Documentation Programme (NLTRDP) represents a bold effort to tackle these long-standing challenges.
The proposed digitalisation of land records, deployment of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), electronic documentation, and the establishment of a more efficient land administration framework promise to improve transparency, shorten processing timelines, and restore confidence in land ownership. These reforms may not generate the excitement of housing commissioning ceremonies, but they are precisely the institutional changes capable of transforming the sector over the long term.
The Minister has also demonstrated commendable resolve in addressing the persistent challenge of building collapses through stronger regulation of Nigeria’s built environment. His insistence on ending quackery, enforcing professional standards, and strengthening regulatory oversight reflects a commitment to safeguarding lives and restoring confidence in the construction industry.
By advocating a coordinated regulatory framework involving all professional bodies and stakeholders, Dr. Darma is reinforcing the principle that sustainable development must be underpinned by professionalism, accountability, and strict compliance with building standards.
Institutional efficiency has equally featured prominently in his first 100 days. Through engagements with Federal Controllers of Housing across the federation, the Minister has emphasized improved project monitoring, stronger inter-agency coordination, and enhanced accountability in project execution. These administrative reforms may receive less public attention, but they are essential to translating policy into measurable outcomes.
Naturally, the true test of any administration lies not in policy announcements but in implementation. Nigerians have witnessed ambitious programmes in the past that faltered due to inadequate funding, bureaucratic delays, weak political will, or inconsistent execution. The reforms initiated during these first 100 days must therefore be sustained through transparency, measurable targets, stakeholder collaboration, and rigorous monitoring.Even so, the direction being charted deserves recognition.
For perhaps the first time in many years, national conversations on housing are moving beyond the mere construction of houses towards broader institutional reforms encompassing land governance, digital transformation, investment attraction, professional regulation, and inclusive urban development. This holistic approach aligns more closely with global best practices and recognises housing as both a social necessity and a catalyst for economic growth.
Housing remains one of the strongest multipliers in any economy. It drives manufacturing, construction, transportation, financial services, and numerous small businesses while generating employment across multiple sectors. A vibrant housing industry strengthens communities, improves living standards, and contributes significantly to national development.
In his first 100 days, Engr. Dr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma has outlined an ambitious roadmap for the sector. His priorities are becoming increasingly clear, and his early interventions suggest a willingness to confront some of the most difficult structural challenges that have hindered Nigeria’s housing development for decades.
The journey ahead will undoubtedly be demanding. Expectations remain high, resources are limited, and implementation will ultimately determine the success of these reforms. However, if the momentum generated during these first 100 days is sustained with consistency, professionalism, and accountability, Nigeria’s housing sector could be on the threshold of a genuine transformation.
For millions of Nigerians who still dream of owning a decent and affordable home, that is a vision worth supportingand one that deserves every opportunity to succeed.
Danyaro is a Media and Public Affairs Analysts based in Abuja.

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Opinion

WARAKA: The Story of Kano Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)

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5 days ago

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August 3, 2026

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A Story by Nurse Ekwem Chinwendu Blessing (BNSC, RPHN, RM, RN)

I was out on my routine duty at Murtala Specialist Hospital for my ambulance service when I decided to take a walk to a centre I had heard about from Sir Muhammad Sunusi Specialist Hospital Accident and Emergency Unit. The centre is called WARAKA–SARC — ‘Waraka’ meaning ‘healing’ in the English language. It is housed in the same building with the Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA), a beautiful block within Murtala Specialist Hospital. The centre comprises three offices and two toilets. Inside, the offices are adorned with colourful posters of alphabets, numbers, GBV survivors support, pathway for initial care after sexual assaults and domestic animals and pets, creating a quiet and therapeutic atmosphere. The staff are warm and friendly.

The centre was sponsored by non-governmental organisation’s (NGOs) and championed by four ministries in the state: the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, and the State Police Force. Unfortunately, the NGOs have since pulled out. WARAKA–SARC attends to cases of sexual assault and gender-based violence for both males and females. I was informed that between 7 and 12 September 2015, training was conducted for doctors, nurses, and counsellors on the management of such cases. Due to the high rate of reported incidents, the NGOs and the four aforementioned ministries pushed for the official opening of the centre.

During my visit, I met several members of staff: a nurse nearing retirement, counsellors, a receptionist, and a volunteer who also serves as the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer. She conducts serological tests such as pregnancy test (serum), HIV, HBsAg, HCV, and VDRL. I had expected to see a doctor trained to assist with forensic examinations, but none was present. I was told that doctors had indeed been trained to provide evidence-based care to clients; however, due to the high demand for medical personnel, they were redeployed to other hospitals and units. Due to that, When a client presents — whether as a case of domestic violence or assault — they are referred to the Gynaecology Emergency Unit, the Gynaecology Ward, the Accident and Emergency Unit, or the Paediatric Unit, depending on the client’s age and the nature of the assault. Following examination, the client returns to WARAKA–SARC for further management, including counselling and serology. On average, the centre sees about fifty clients per week.

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Notwithstanding these challenges, this is the only functioning centre in the state that attends to cases of sexual assault and gender-based violence. I noted that all services rendered to clients are free of charge, and the centre also provides continuous follow-up care.

Based on my observation, WARAKA–SARC is a sensitive and vital centre. I therefore suggest the following measures to improve the care and services provided to clients:

· The deployment of medical personnel — including doctors, nurses, and counselling psychologists — to the centre.

· The four ministries should consistently include the centre in their annual budgets.

· Continuous engagement of staff through training, rural outreach programmes, community sensitisation, and the provision of incentives.

· NGOs should resume and sustain their collaboration with the centre.

· Proper referral pathways for clients to the centre must be established and maintained.

· The Ministry of Justice should make it mandatory for all cases of sexual assault and gender-based violence to pass through WARAKA–SARC before trial. This will enhance the centre’s visibility among individuals and communities.

· Additional centres should be established in strategic local government areas to bring services closer to rural communities far from Kano town, thereby improving access and utilisation.

· Community enlightenment on the importance of the centre and the need to seek help freely when necessary.

· Religious and community leaders should partner with the centre to promote peace and encourage community members to utilise its services.

 

Speak out, get help — end the cycle of violence.

WARAKA SARC: Your path to healing and justice.

Stop GBV. Support survivors. Strengthen justice.

WARAKA SARC: Restoring dignity, rebuilding lives.

Supporting survivors with care, dignity, and compassion.

WARAKA SARC — A Safe Space for Healing.

 

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Opinion

How Kano Digitized Land Turns N50m to N750m Monthly

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5 days ago

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August 3, 2026

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– Abba Ka Cika Gwarzo…

By Abba Anwar

Land administration, safety and security of land documents are dancing gorgeously to the gallery, as the administration of His Excellency, Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf digitalized and institutionalized land administration and ownership in the last three years.

Study tour to Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), by states like Abia, Kaduna, Jigawa, Adamawa, among others is a clear testimony that Kano is making headway with excellent innovations in land administration and management. Analog to digital development.

Before now, KANGIS was a small unit /department under the state Ministry of Land and Physical Planning. But when Governor Yusuf came on board, the agency turned into full-fledged and autonomous agency with the establishment Law. Normal legislative procedures were followed. And now an independent agency. This makes seamless operations possible. With clear mandate and global taste.

Billions of Naira injected in overhauling and modernizing the agency, were recovered within six months of becoming an autonomous agency. With full Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure which turned the face of the agency via digital and GIS infrastructures, pave the way for that.

Employing GIS enterprise, that is modernizing land administration, beginning from land application to the level of acquiring Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) has now become a seamless operation. Where slow operation fades away.

For Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) the agency was generating a maximum of Fifty Million Naira (N50m) monthly. With the new Law in place and dedicated leadership, from His Excellency down to the Director General of the agency, Dr Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, and dedicated staff, KANGIS can now boost of generating a maximum of up to Seven Hundred and Fifty Million Naira (N750m) monthly.

Racketeering of land documents by touts and weak minded internal elements, has significantly minimized. A system has now been in place for a land applicant to monitor the movement and progress of his or her application from the comfort of one’s room.

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There is an improved manpower, who are always undergoing training and retraining. To cope with the global best practice. With this and the digitalization of the agency, corruption is being reduced to minimal level in the administration and management of land. So also laziness from the part of the staff, unproductive posture, double allocation and insecured process for land ownership are all shelved aside.

Under the wisdom of His Excellency, the Governor, the agency, KANGIS, works hand in hand with the state ministry for land and physical planning. Unlike in some other states, where such agencies wall out ministries of land. Not only maintaining the two institutions, in Kano, both the agency and the ministry work harmoniously in rancour-free atmosphere.

Though land ministry is the mother ministry, but rivalry between them is significantly at the lowest level. It may interest one to know that all payments of the ministry are paid through KANGIS.

The Director General of KANGIS Dr Sani is a renown scholar of geographic information system of global repute, who was invited by Governor Yusuf from far away Turkey, to come and serve his state. Without hesitation, Dr Sani responded positively to His Excellency’s request. Here he is, Dr Sani brought many strategies and innovations to KANGIS. The political will of the Governor helps much in this development. That has eluded the agency since its creation in 2012.

Understanding the genuine political will and commitment of the Governor towards the spirit development of the agency, the good working relationship between all the political appointees and staff of the agency and the mother ministry, is strengthening day in day out. They all understand what team work is to the development of the state.

Ranging from the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Abudujjabar Muhammad Umar, Adviser to the Governor on Land Matters, Hadiza Gadanya, Director General of KANGIS, Dr Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Land Matters, Alhaji Ahmad down to the Senior Special Reporter Nanu Kankarofi, all believe and understand what team work is and what Governor Yusuf wants in reshaping land administration, control and ownership in the state. Kudos to them all.

Another important picture of Governor’s genuine love for a new Kano is his non-interference in KANGIS’s operations and technical decisions. Being an autonomous with competent hand as the Director General, Governor Yusuf believes he puts a square peg in a square hole. At KANGIS and the mother ministry, modernization with global touch is quite visible. It was this visibility, I guessed, that prompted other states to come to Kano and start shopping for ingenious land administration.

I can still remember vividly clear, when the immediate past Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Ahmad Dangiwa visited KANGIS sometime back, he informed the DG that when he returned back to Abuja, he would inform President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to kindly urge other states of the federation to come to Kano and visit KANGIS for them to replicate Kano model of land administration. I don’t know if that really happened.

With the full operation and commitment of KANGIS and Land Ministry, Kano Master Plan of over 30 years is now being undusted and ready to be revisited word by word. This is possible as a result of Governor Yusuf’s political will and commitment.

Anwar writes from Kano
Monday, 3rd August, 2026

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