Prof. Muhammad Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, has completed a ministerial inspection of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) medical facilities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Muhammad Musa, Head of Public Affairs, NAHCON, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja.

Musa said that the visit signals a transformative era in federal dedication to pilgrims healthcare services.

He said that during a visit to NAHCON’s Ummul-Jud office,  Pate assured NAHCON of a comprehensive support towards tackling critical healthcare challenges faced by Nigerian pilgrims.

“His statement underscored a profound federal resolve, reflecting heightened prioritisation of pilgrim welfare by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“Our commitment is clear. Given the global health landscape ranging from meningitis outbreaks to polio concerns it is imperative we meet and exceed Saudi Arabia’s health requirements.

“Ensuring credible vaccination documentation, including yellow cards for all Nigerian pilgrims, is non-negotiable,” Musa quoted Pate as saying.

Musa said the health minister, who was accompanied by senior health ministry delegates, inspected NAHCON’s ambulance fleet, reviewed medical supplies inventories, and assessed equipment readiness at Nigerian health clinics.

He pointed out that the visit highlighted key areas for improvement, including increasing availability of essential medicines, vaccines, medical apparatus, and operational ambulances.

NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, lauded the Minister’s initiative, emphasising its significance.

“Your presence and involvement signify an extraordinary commitment that bolsters confidence in our healthcare delivery. This unprecedented engagement will undeniably facilitate a smoother and safer 2025 Hajj experience for our pilgrims.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that an approximately 70,000 Nigerians annually performed the sacred pilgrimage.

Pate’s direct engagement underscores an essential advancement in governmental oversight and proactive healthcare planning during this significant Islamic ritual.

The minister also addressed emerging concerns, notably climate-induced extreme hot weather during the 2025 upcoming Hajj, committing to proactive measures to safeguard pilgrims’ well-being.

This inspection is expected to foster enhanced interagency collaboration between the Health Ministry and NAHCON as well as ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims receive exceptional medical care during their spiritual journey.

NAHCON reiterates its unwavering dedication to transparency, exceptional service delivery and the continuous enhancement of pilgrim welfare.

The inspection was also witnessed by the Commissioner Operations, PRSILS and PPMF, Prince Anofi’u Elegusi, Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, Prince Abdul-Razaq Aliyu, and the Board Member representing the Federal Health Ministry Dr Sa’edu Dumbulwa.

Also in attendance were Secretary to the Commission, Dr Mustapha Ali, Directors, Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, Saudi liaison officer, Abubakar Lamin and other NAHCON staff.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz