Nigerian Pilgrim Dies in Saudi Arabia Shortly After Arriving for Hajj 2026
In a tragic development, a Nigerian pilgrim has passed away in Saudi Arabia just after arriving for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The deceased, identified as Mallama Aishatu Muhammadu, was a 73-year-old woman from Gombi Local Government Area in Adamawa State. She reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest on Saturday, May 9, while traveling from Jeddah to the holy city of Madinah.
NAHCON Chairman Extends Condolences and Government Support
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ismail Abba Yusuf, conveyed the Federal Government's condolences to the bereaved family. During a telephone conversation with the deceased's brother, Umaru Jauro Koko, Ambassador Yusuf prayed for the repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah to grant her Aljannatul Firdaus. He also prayed for strength for the family to bear the loss.
The NAHCON chairman assured the family that the government would facilitate the return of the deceased's personal belongings to Nigeria. Items such as her Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) and death certificate will be handed over through the Adamawa State Pilgrims Welfare Commission.
Deceased Leaves Behind Children, Grandchildren, and Great-Grandchild
The late pilgrim is survived by children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. Among her surviving relatives is Abdullahi Bello, who serves as the Divisional Officer of the Ganye Division of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Saudi Arabia Reduces Nigeria's Pilgrim Quota for 2026 Hajj
In a related development, Saudi authorities have trimmed Nigeria's allocation for the 2026 Hajj, a move that has forced authorities in Zamfara State to scale back their list of intending pilgrims. The Zamfara Hajj Commission confirmed that 456 applicants will no longer participate in this year's pilgrimage due to the reduction.
