Abuja, Nigeria – The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a strong advisory to intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj, urging them to prepare for extreme temperatures following the deadly heatwave that claimed several Nigerian lives during the 2024 pilgrimage.
NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, sounded the warning during an inspection of the commission’s facilities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. He was accompanied by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, as part of efforts to assess preparedness and improve safety protocols for Nigerian pilgrims.
Prof. Usman underscored the urgency of enhanced government oversight and proactive healthcare interventions, stressing that the soaring temperatures—exceeding 50°C in 2024—posed a severe risk to pilgrims’ health. He attributed the worsening heat conditions to climate change, emphasizing the need for preventive measures to mitigate heat-related illnesses.
“Our discussions with NAHCON officials reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding Nigerian pilgrims. Given global health concerns such as meningitis outbreaks and polio risks, all intending pilgrims must meet and exceed Saudi Arabia’s health requirements. Compliance with vaccination protocols, including valid yellow cards, is non-negotiable,” he stated.
The 2024 Hajj witnessed over 1,300 reported fatalities due to heat-related complications, with Nigerian pilgrims among the most affected. Many suffered heatstroke and dehydration, exacerbated by limited access to cooling stations and medical care.
In response, NAHCON has issued strict safety guidelines for 2025 intending pilgrims, advising them to stay hydrated, wear protective gear, and adhere to health recommendations to minimize heat-related risks.
The commission reassured Nigerians that it is working closely with Saudi authorities to enhance safety measures, ensuring that the tragic events of 2024 are not repeated.
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