By Deji Abdulwahab
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed that no casualties occurred following a fire outbreak at a hotel housing 484 Nigerian pilgrims in Makkah on Saturday.
In a statement released by Hajiya Fatima Usara, Assistant Director of NAHCON’s Information and Publications Division, the fire broke out around noon at the Imaratus Sanan Hotel, located on Shari Mansur Street, while the pilgrims were performing their religious duties in Mina.
“NAHCON regrets the fire incident that took place earlier today at the Imaratus Sanan Hotel, accommodating approximately 484 pilgrims from six Nigerian Private Tour Operator companies,” Usara stated.
“Fortunately, no lives were lost, and all pilgrims are currently safe in Mina,” she said.
She credited the swift response of Saudi emergency services and the hotel management for quickly containing the fire and preventing further damage to the building.
Following the incident, NAHCON Chairman and CEO, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, promptly visited the site to assess the situation and ensure the wellbeing of the affected pilgrims.
He was accompanied by Commissioner for Policy Personnel Management and Finance, Alhaji Aliu Abdulrazak, and Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Director Alidu Shutti.
Prof. Saleh ordered the immediate relocation of the displaced pilgrims to alternative accommodations and assured that the commission would provide all necessary support to mitigate the impact of the incident.
He expressed gratitude to Allah for the safety of the pilgrims and commended the efficient efforts of the Saudi emergency responders and hotel staff in managing the crisis.
NAHCON also pledged to work closely with the affected tour operators to facilitate a smooth transition for the pilgrims to their new lodgings.
