By Abdullahi Yusuf

1. All NAHCON-run clinics in Makkah main and outposts have secured full accreditation for Hajj 2025, ensuring uninterrupted medical care for Nigerian pilgrims.

2. As of 1st Dhul Hijjah, 1,255,199 foreign pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj.

3. Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs unveiled $9 million worth of upgrades, including 19 giant umbrellas at Namira Mosque, 98 misting fans, 70 water units serving 140,000 pilgrims/hour, carbon dioxide sensors, and smart surveillance systems.

4. Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia are warned of temperatures up to 47°C, with high humidity, dusty winds, and potential thunderstorms. Pilgrims advised to stay hydrated and follow weather updates.

5. NAHCON secures extra tents, Nigerian pilgrims to benefit from upgraded Masha’er Tent facilities, New features include cooling systems, shading umbrellas, and 7 extra backup tents for emergencies.

6. Makkah Eye Health Center performs urgent surgery on a pilgrim suffering from retinal detachment. She resumed Hajj rituals post-surgery. Last year, Saudi health services treated over 142,000 pilgrims.

7. A total of 298 Sierra Leonean Pilgrims landed safely at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah via EgyptAir.

8. Afghanistan confirms successful airlift of 30,000 pilgrims from Kabul, Balkh, Herat, and Kandahar. Among them: 652 scholars.

9. The second group of beneficiaries under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Guests Program arrived in Saudi Arabia from 76 countries. 1053 pilgrims were welcomed with roses and refreshments.

10. Did You Know?: If a woman gets her menstrual period during Hajj, she is still rewarded for her intention and participation, and she may perform all rites except Tawaf until she is purified.

11. Fun Fact: During Tawaf and Sa’i, designated areas and timings are arranged specifically for women to ensure comfort, space, and safety.

12. Did You Know?: Women can perform Hajj on behalf of a deceased person or someone unable to go, just like men.

13. Did You Know?: In 2023, over 40% of pilgrims from Indonesia were women, showcasing the growing participation of Muslim women in Hajj globally.

14. Did You Know?: As soon as pilgrims enter Ihram, they begin chanting the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”

15. Fun fact: During Hajj, the city of Makkah becomes the most densely populated place on Earth, surpassing even the busiest metropolises.

16. UMZA Airlines Services one of the Airlines flying Nigeria Pilgrims provides two aircrafts for the operation. One Boeing 747,400 series and passenger capacity of 484,  the other Boeing 777,600 series and passenger capacity of 312.