Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia are being urged to stay indoors for their safety, as temperatures continue to climb. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a directive advising pilgrims to remain inside between 10 AM and 4 PM daily. This crucial warning comes after the Saudi Arabian government's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) projected soaring daytime temperatures, expected to hit between 40°C and 47°C.

Abdullahi Usman, the chairman of NAHCON, confirmed this directive, explaining that forecasts show challenging weather with intense heat, poor visibility, and even potential thunderstorms. Following a meeting with officials from various state pilgrims' boards, it was decided that no pilgrim should be outside their tents in Mina or Arafat during these peak hours.

Usman emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "It is not advisable to go out because the temperature is not normal this year." He strongly advised pilgrims to continuously drink water and, if they must go outside, to carry water and use umbrellas for protection. He also appealed to the media to help spread this vital information to all pilgrims, stressing the importance of adhering to these heatwave warnings.

The high temperatures have already had tragic consequences. Sadly, a pilgrim from Plateau State, Hajiya Jamila Muhammad, passed away in Makkah due to complications from diabetes. This follows another reported death last week of Adizatu Dazumi, a 75-year-old pilgrim from Edo State. These unfortunate incidents underscore the serious health risks posed by the extreme heat during the Hajj exercise. Pilgrims are encouraged to follow all safety guidelines to ensure a healthy and successful pilgrimage.

Source: https://saharareporters.com/2025/06/03/hajj-commission-nahcon-asks-nigerian-pilgrims-remain-indoors-10am-4pm-saudi-arabias