Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has pledged enhanced medical support for 2025 Hajj.
He made the pledge during a visit to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) medical facilities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
The NAHCON Head of Public Affairs, Muhammad Ahmad Musa, who made this known in a statement, disclosed that the Minister completed a ministerial inspection of medical facilities in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Accompanied by senior health ministry delegates, Minister Pate conducted inspections of NAHCON’s ambulance fleet, reviewed medical supplies inventories, and assessed equipment readiness at Nigerian health clinics in Saudi Arabia.
The visit highlighted key areas for improvement, including increasing the availability of essential medicines, vaccines, medical apparatus, and operational ambulances.
The Minister gave the assurance of the Nigerian government’s support aimed at confronting critical healthcare challenges that Nigerian pilgrims often face.
According to the NAHCON Head of Public Affairs, “His statement underscored a profound federal resolve, reflecting heightened prioritization of pilgrim welfare by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.”
Minister Pate affirmed, “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.”
The NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, commended the Minister’s initiative saying; “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.”
Given the participation of approximately 70,000 Nigerians annually in the sacred pilgrimage, Minister Pate’s direct engagement underscores an essential advancement in governmental oversight and proactive healthcare planning.
He also addressed emerging concerns, notably climate-induced extreme hot weather during the 2025 upcoming Hajj, committing to proactive measures to safeguard pilgrims’ health and well-being.
The inspection fosters enhanced interagency collaboration between Nigeria’s Health Ministry and NAHCON, ensuring Nigerian pilgrims receive exceptional medical care during their spiritual journey.
NAHCON, therefore, reiterated its dedication to transparency, exceptional service delivery, and the continuous enhancement of pilgrim welfare.
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