An official of a State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has raised concerns over a lack of critical information regarding the location of medical facilities for Nigerian pilgrims in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of the 2025 Hajj exercise.
The official, who spoke to Hajj Reporters under the condition of anonymity, expressed frustration and disbelief at the current state of coordination between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state boards.
“We don’t know the location of NAHCON Clinics in Makkah, as I speak with you,” the official said, describing the situation as unacceptable, especially considering the large number of pilgrims expected in the holy city and the urgent need for accessible healthcare.
The revelation comes amid ongoing preparations for the 2025 Hajj, where thousands of Nigerian pilgrims are already arriving in Saudi Arabia. Medical care remains a top priority during the pilgrimage, given the harsh conditions and the vulnerability of elderly and ill pilgrims.
In past years, NAHCON established temporary clinics in key locations across Makkah and Madinah to cater to the health needs of Nigerian pilgrims. However, the absence of timely information and proper signage has repeatedly sparked complaints of poor coordination.
This latest disclosure suggests there may be a communication breakdown or operational delay in setting up or publicizing the clinic locations. Stakeholders are calling for immediate clarification from NAHCON to ensure no pilgrim is left without access to critical health services.
Efforts to reach NAHCON officials for comment as of press time were unsuccessful, but observers expect the Commission to address the issue swiftly as the Hajj season gathers momentum.
