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The Government of Saudi Arabia has banned Nigerian Pilgrims from importing kola nuts, popularly called “goro” or “oji” , into the Kingdom during the 2016 Hajj.
This was revealed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), who noted that it received a circular conveying the ban from Saudi on Tuesday.
NAHCON said the Saudi government threatened in the circular to punish any pilgrim who smuggles Kola nut, in accordance with the laws of the Kingdom.
“The commission received a circular from the Saudi authorities prohibiting the import of kola nuts into the Kingdom during this year’s Haj.
“By this, all Nigerian intending pilgrims are advised to adhere strictly to the Saudi rules and regulations on prohibited items,” the commission said.
The agency urged States’ Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions as well as all the licensed tour operators to properly enlighten their pilgrims on the matter, warning that it would sanction any pilgrim boards/agencies/commissions or tour operators which flout the instruction.
Kola nut is a caffeine-based edible seed, often used ceremonially by Nigerians to show a gesture of friendship and warmth; it is also used in the production of beverage and energy drinks.
Meanwhile, NAHCON revealed that a total number of 15,531 pilgrims had so far been captured for the issuance of 2016 Hajj visa.
Source: thewhistler.
