Two Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2025 Hajj exercise have passed away in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, underlining the health challenges often faced by elderly and medically vulnerable individuals during the rigorous Islamic pilgrimage. The deceased are Hajiya Jamila Muhammad from Plateau State and Adizatu Dazumi from Edo State. Both deaths were reportedly linked to pre-existing health conditions, sparking concerns about medical preparedness and health screening for pilgrims undertaking this spiritually significant but physically strenuous journey.

Plateau State Pilgrim Dies from Diabetic Complications

Hajiya Jamila Muhammad, a pilgrim from Plateau State, died in Makkah due to complications arising from diabetes, according to a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos by the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. Daiyabu Dauda.

The statement confirmed that Muhammad began experiencing health complications during the Hajj rituals. Upon noticing her deteriorating condition, the board’s medical team swiftly transferred her to King Abdul’aziz Hospital in Makkah, where she later died.

“When the complications began, we immediately took her to the hospital for proper medication in line with our mandate,” Dauda stated.

He explained that doctors at the hospital confirmed her death was a result of diabetes-related complications. The board has since extended condolences to her family and assured the public of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health of pilgrims under its care.

Edo State Pilgrim Also Dies After Completing Religious Rituals

Just a week earlier, another Nigerian pilgrim, Adizatu Dazumi from Edo State, died in Makkah after a brief illness. According to reports, the 75-year-old woman, a native of Jattu Uzairue in the Etsako West Local Government Area, had successfully completed the Tawaaf ritual — the spiritual act of circumambulating the Kaaba — before she suddenly fell ill.

She was subsequently admitted to King Fahad General Hospital in Makkah on Sunday and passed away the following day.

The Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Musah Uduimoh, confirmed the incident and revealed that she was buried the same day in Makkah, adhering to Islamic burial customs. Uduimoh extended heartfelt condolences to her family and praised her spiritual commitment.

“She was buried in Makkah on the same day, according to Islamic tradition, and her family in Jattu Uzairue has been informed,” he said.

Health Challenges of the Hajj: A Recurring Concern

The deaths of these two pilgrims underscore the significant health risks associated with Hajj, especially for older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Each year, millions of Muslims from around the globe embark on this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage, which includes physically demanding rituals performed in extremely hot and crowded conditions.

While the pilgrimage is a deeply rewarding spiritual journey, it poses serious medical challenges. Pilgrims often have to walk long distances, stand for extended periods, and endure harsh weather conditions, which can exacerbate existing medical conditions. Heatstroke, dehydration, exhaustion, and complications from chronic diseases are not uncommon during Hajj.

Both Hajiya Jamila Muhammad and Adizatu Dazumi were reported to have experienced health issues that, despite immediate medical intervention, led to their deaths. These cases draw renewed attention to the importance of thorough pre-departure health screening, improved medical facilities for pilgrims, and robust emergency response strategies during the Hajj season.

Pilgrim Welfare Boards Reaffirm Commitment to Safety

The respective pilgrims’ welfare boards from Plateau and Edo states have reassured families and the general public that every effort is being made to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of Nigerian pilgrims.

Mr. Daiyabu Dauda emphasized that the Plateau State board had medical protocols in place to address emergencies and had responded swiftly to Muhammad’s condition. Similarly, Alhaji Musah Uduimoh of Edo State reiterated his board’s dedication to safeguarding the lives of all pilgrims under its supervision and ensuring prompt response to health emergencies.

These statements reflect the growing recognition among Hajj administrators of the need for stronger healthcare systems, medical surveillance, and counseling as integral components of pilgrimage preparation.

Calls for Improved Medical Preparedness

In light of these tragic losses, religious and health stakeholders are urging the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and state pilgrims’ boards to enhance their health preparedness plans. Suggestions include:

• Mandatory pre-Hajj health screening for chronic illnesses

• Stricter fitness certifications for elderly and at-risk pilgrims

• Deployment of more Nigerian doctors and nurses to accompany pilgrim contingents

• Health education programs before departure to inform pilgrims about managing their conditions during Hajj

These steps could help prevent similar incidents in the future and provide timely care when needed.

A Reminder of the Risks and Rewards of Hajj

Despite the risks, millions continue to embark on the Hajj journey each year, driven by deep spiritual devotion. The deaths of Hajiya Jamila Muhammad and Adizatu Dazumi, while tragic, serve as a reminder of both the physical toll and the profound significance of the pilgrimage.

Muslim communities across Nigeria have extended prayers for the deceased and their families, acknowledging their sacrifice and spiritual fulfillment. In Islam, dying during Hajj is considered a form of martyrdom, and many believe that the reward for such a death is immense in the afterlife.

As the 2025 Hajj progresses, the focus now turns to ensuring that remaining pilgrims stay safe, healthy, and spiritually uplifted throughout their journey.