Nigeria Pledges Enhanced Medical Support for 2025 Hajj Pilgrims
Makkah, Saudi Arabia– Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has pledged comprehensive medical support for Nigerian pilgrims ahead of the 2025 Hajj, following an inspection of healthcare facilities in Makkah.
During his visit to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) Ummul-Jud office, Pate emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing healthcare challenges faced by pilgrims, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prioritization of citizen welfare.
“Given the global health landscape—from meningitis outbreaks to polio concerns—we must meet and exceed Saudi Arabia’s health requirements,” Pate stated. “Ensuring credible vaccination documentation, including yellow cards for all pilgrims, is non-negotiable.”
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The minister inspected NAHCON’s ambulance fleet, medical supplies, and equipment readiness at Nigerian clinics in Saudi Arabia, identifying key areas for improvement, including increased availability of medicines, vaccines, and ambulances.
NAHCON Chairman Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman praised the minister’s engagement, calling it a “confidence booster” for healthcare delivery during the Hajj. With about 70,000 Nigerians expected to perform the pilgrimage in 2025, Pate also addressed climate-related risks, promising proactive measures against extreme heat.
The inspection marks strengthened collaboration between Nigeria’s Health Ministry and NAHCON to ensure pilgrims’ safety.
Accompanying the minister were NAHCON’s Chairman, Prof. Usman; Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofi’u Elegushi; Board Member Dr. Sa’edu Dumbulwa; and other senior officials.
NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and improved welfare for pilgrims.
Muhammad Ahmad Musa
Head of Public Affairs, NAHCON
