Heat, Health Strain Affect Nigerian Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Hot weather and the physical demands of Hajj are affecting Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, where health officials say 54 people have received treatment and four deaths have been recorded so far during the 2026 exercise.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed that most of those treated were managed at medical centres in Makkah and Madinah and discharged the same day after receiving care. The commission also said the deaths involved female pilgrims, with most cases linked to heart-related complications such as cardiac arrest and myocardial infarction, while another case involved a strangulated hernia.

The Head of the National Medical Team said NAHCON is operating five licensed clinics in Saudi Arabia—two in Madinah and three in Makkah—to provide healthcare for Nigerian pilgrims. The Madinah clinics are located at Alsham’s Madinah Hotel and Buna Toiba in the Markazia area, while the Makkah facilities are in Misfalah, Sharasittin and Niger House in Yabalash.

He explained that the clinics began operations after the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims on April 28, following approval from Saudi authorities. However, he said this year’s rules allow only full clinic services, with no smaller outposts, which has increased pressure on the main facilities as more patients arrive for treatment.

Officials said more than 24 patients have been referred from Madinah to Saudi hospitals, while over 30 others were transferred from Makkah, especially from the Misfalah clinic, which serves pilgrims from about 19 states. Serious cases are moved to hospitals such as King Abdulaziz Hospital through emergency services.

NAHCON also said about 287 medical personnel, including doctors and specialists, are currently on ground to manage health cases among pilgrims.

At the Misfalah clinic, the Head of Facility, Fatima Saddiq, said doctors are treating increasing numbers of patients daily, with common cases including malaria, dehydration, hypertension, diabetes, asthma, body pains and minor injuries. She added that six doctors are deployed per shift to handle the workload.

Health officials have advised pilgrims to avoid unnecessary movement in extreme heat, stay hydrated and manage existing health conditions to reduce risks during the pilgrimage.

Source: Daily Trust

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