By Mustapha Adamu
A Nigerian pilgrim, Hauwa’u Sa’ad Joda has said that only entering paradise will be a better feeling than the excitement she is currently feeling while in Saudi Arabia for 2023 Hajj.
Mrs Koda, a pilgrim from Adamawa state, also said she cannot explain her feelings as her lifetime dream has been fulfilled.
Speaking with HAJJ REPORTERS while on visitation to Uhud, one of the sites visited by pilgrims to see some historical places, Mrs Joda stated that she was sponsored to the Hajj by her sister, Aisha Ahmad.
According to her, she couldn’t control her tears when the sister informed her about going to Hajj this year, stating that “the excitement is inexplicable because my lifetime dream has been fulfilled.”
Asked about the services rendered to her by both Adamawa state Pilgrims Board and National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia, Mrs Joda said everything went successfully.
Speaking in an emotion-laden voice, Mrs Joda said she was astonished by seeing herself in Madinah for the first time, something she craved for many years.
“When we arrived in Madinah, the feeling, the excitement is second to none. I saw a lot of development and the reception we received is commendable.
“We have been carried in a long bus to our accommodation. When we reached the hotel, it took us a little time to be allocated a room. We are now living comfortably in the hotel. Food and water are served to us in time.
“Now that I found myself in this place, Uhud, I was conducted round to see the graves of 70 companions of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. I was emotional as you can see, because the excitement I’m feeling, only entering paradise will surpass it,” she acknowledged.
While thanking and appreciating her sponsor, Mrs Joda also commended the Adamawa state Pilgrims Welfare Board and NAHCON for rendering quality services to the pilgrims.
“Our guide told us that we are also visiting Masjid Qubah and Masjid Qiblataini.
“I am very happy. Only Allah knows what i am feeling. May Allah reward A’isha abundantly. I cannot explain my feelings. I see a different environment, a developed environment.
“I just pray to Allah to grant me the ability to return here,” she said
