Two Nigerian pilgrims from Kaduna State have earned widespread praise and international commendation for returning lost cash and valuables worth over N14 million during the ongoing Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The first incident involved Shafi’u Abdul’aziz, a pilgrim from Lere Local Government Area, who found a bag containing foreign currency exceeding N8 million, along with two high-end mobile phones at the Grand Mosque (Haram) in Makkah. Upon discovering the owner’s visa and accommodation documents inside the bag, Shafi’u immediately alerted officials of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, led by Malam Salihu Abubakar.
In line with protocol, the agency handed over the bag to its Saudi service provider, Mu’assah, which worked with the Malian agency, Ithra Aljoud, to trace the rightful owner. The Malian pilgrim, who chose to remain anonymous, was later reunited with his belongings in an emotional meeting attended by Shafi’u and officials from both countries. In appreciation, the Malian pilgrim offered heartfelt prayers for Shafi’u’s honesty.
In recognition of his integrity, the Kaduna State Hajj service provider presented Shafi’u with a set of gifts including premium perfume and prayer beads. Speaking to reporters, Shafi’u said he was deeply grateful for the opportunity to do what is right. “Returning what doesn’t belong to me brings more satisfaction than any amount of money,” he said.
In a separate but equally inspiring event, Alhaji Sha’aban Sidi Hassan from Igabi Local Government Area found a bag inside a toilet at the Haram Mosque. The bag contained approximately N4 million in cash (including €1,600 and 1,195 Saudi Riyals), a mobile phone, eyeglasses, and a pilgrim’s ID card.
Sha’aban also handed the bag to the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency. The agency's Administrative Secretary, Malam Baba Mohammed Rufa’i, used the phone to contact the owner—an Algerian pilgrim—and personally returned the items after verifying the pilgrim’s identity. The Algerian expressed deep appreciation for the act of honesty.
The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has commended both Shafi’u and Sha’aban, describing their actions as a reflection of the upright values and moral character of pilgrims from the state. Their conduct, the agency stated, has not only brought pride to Kaduna State but has also reminded the global Muslim community of the spiritual significance and ethical principles that define the Hajj.
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