Abdulazeez Abdulrasheed
With the commencement of the 2023 Hajj, over two million Muslims are set to embark on a pilgrimage, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rules for a smooth and trouble-free experience. Among the participants, 95,000 Muslims from Nigeria will join fellow pilgrims as they gather at the plain of Arafat in their spiritual journey.
During a pre-Arafat meeting in Makkah, important statistics were shared on Saturday evening. Dr. Galadima Usman, the head of the medical team from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), revealed that since May 26, 2023, when Nigerian pilgrims began arriving in Saudi Arabia, a total of 15,860 medical consultations were conducted. He further disclosed that six deaths of Nigerian pilgrims were confirmed, along with eight cases of communicable diseases, 30 psychiatric cases, seven pregnant pilgrims, seven fractures and two miscarriages.
Dr. Usman assured that all cases were being effectively managed to ensure the successful completion of the pilgrimage for the patients. He emphasized the team’s commitment to reducing the casualty rate among Nigerian pilgrims and providing comprehensive care. The medical team consists of psychiatrists who specifically address the mental health needs of the patients. The meeting was attended by notable individuals including Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, the Chairman of NAHCON; Alhaji Yahaya Lawal, the Nigerian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia; NAHCON commissioners; senior management staff of the commission; officials from the states’ pilgrim welfare boards; representatives of private tour operators; and other stakeholders.