At least 13 Nigerians have died during the 2023 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, according to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). The commission revealed that seven deaths occurred before the Arafah pilgrimage, while another six occurred during the Arafah pilgrimage.
Dr. Usman Galadima, Head of the National Medical Team (NMT) at NAHCON, presented the statistics during a post-Arafah meeting in Makkah on Sunday. He stated that four deaths occurred in Arafah, while two occurred in Mina, bringing the total number of deaths among Nigerian pilgrims to 13 since the start of the Hajj.
Dr. Galadima also highlighted some challenges faced during the pilgrimage, including increased pressure on ambulance services, congestion in Mina, and poor sanitization. The medical team attended to a total of 25,722 patients, with 15,268 being female and 10,454 male. The team reported two cases of deliveries of term pregnancies and three cases of Chickenpox.
According to the report by NAHCON NMT, the states of Kaduna and Osun each lost two pilgrims, while Plateau, Borno, Yobe, FCT, Benue, and Lagos each lost one pilgrim. Additionally, three pilgrims from tour operators also lost their lives.
In related news, Engr Goni Sanda, Head of Aviation at NAHCON, announced that the return inaugural flight from Saudi Arabia to Nigeria is scheduled to depart on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. He stated that both pilgrims and officials will be treated on a first come, first to depart basis. Sanda mentioned that most officials are expected to spend no more than 45 days in Saudi Arabia to ensure a smooth return for Nigerians. The return flight operation is set to continue until August 3, 2023, with assurances that 94,987 pilgrims will be safely returned home.
As the Hajj pilgrimage comes to a close, it is important to remember the lives lost during this sacred journey for Muslims worldwide. The Nigerian government, alongside NAHCON, will continue to work towards improving the pilgrimage experience and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Nigerian pilgrims.
This year’s Hajj has been marked by several challenges, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has necessitated strict health and safety measures. The Nigerian authorities have been implementing thorough protocols to mitigate the spread of the virus and safeguard the health of the pilgrims.
It is crucial for both the Nigerian government and NAHCON to carefully evaluate the various challenges faced during this year’s Hajj and identify areas for improvement. By addressing issues such as ambulance services, congestion, and sanitization, future Hajj pilgrimages can be made safer and more efficient for all participants.
As the return flights commence, Nigerians are hopeful for a smooth and successful journey back home. The efforts of the Nigerian government, NAHCON, and all involved parties are greatly appreciated in ensuring the safe return of the pilgrims.
The Hajj pilgrimage is a significant event for Muslims worldwide, and it is important to reflect on the spiritual journey and the lives lost during this profound experience. May the souls of the deceased pilgrims rest in peace, and may future Hajj pilgrimages be marked by peace, harmony, and safety for all.
