Prepare for extreme heatwaves during 2025 Hajj exercise – NAHCON tells intending pilgrim
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has warned intending pilgrims to prepare for extreme heat during the 2025 Hajj exercise, following the deaths of several Nigerians due to intense heatwave in 2024.
NAHCON chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, issued the warning while inspecting the commission’s facilities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
The inspection was led by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
Usman stressed the importance of government oversight and proactive healthcare measures, especially after the 2024 Hajj tragedy, where extreme temperatures claimed the lives of several Nigerian pilgrims.
The Saudi authorities had reported temperatures exceeding 50°C, making it one of the hottest Hajj seasons in history.
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He acknowledged concerns over climate-induced extreme temperatures and reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to implementing preventive measures to safeguard pilgrims’ health.
Pate assured that the government would provide full support in addressing healthcare challenges faced by Nigerian pilgrims.
“Our discussions with NAHCON officials reflect our clear commitment. Given global health concerns such as meningitis outbreaks and polio risks, we must meet and exceed Saudi Arabia’s health requirements.
“Ensuring all Nigerian pilgrims have proper vaccination documentation, including valid yellow cards, is non-negotiable,” Pate stated.
It could be recalled that during the 2024 Hajj, over 1,300 pilgrims reportedly died due to heat-related illnesses, including Nigerians.
Many collapsed from heatstroke while performing religious rites under the scorching sun.
Reports indicated that some pilgrims struggled with dehydration due to inadequate access to cooling stations and medical care.
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