All 484 Nigerian pilgrims staying at a hotel in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, have been confirmed safe following a fire incident on Saturday, June 7, 2025.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria announced that there were no casualties and that the pilgrims had been successfully relocated.
The fire reportedly broke out around 12 noon (KSA time) at the Imaratus Sanan Hotel, located on Shari Mansur Street. The affected pilgrims were part of groups managed by six Nigerian Private Tour Operators.
In a statement released by Fatima Usara, Assistant Director of the Information and Publications Division, NAHCON praised the swift response by Saudi emergency services and hotel staff, which helped contain the fire and prevent a more serious outcome.
“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed that all 484 Nigerian pilgrims affected by the fire incident… are safe and accounted for,” the statement read.
NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Usman, visited the site shortly after the incident, alongside key officials including Alhaji Aliu Abdulrazak, Commissioner of Policy, Personnel Management and Finance, and Director Alidu Shutti, Deputy Makkah Coordinator.
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During the visit, Professor Usman expressed gratitude that no lives were lost, stating, “We thank Almighty Allah for sparing lives. The safety of our pilgrims is our utmost priority, and every support needed will be provided.”
He also directed that all affected pilgrims be relocated immediately. NAHCON confirmed that inspections of the new accommodations had been completed and resettlement was already underway.
“We deeply appreciate the rapid response of Saudi emergency teams and the support from the hotel staff. Their coordination helped prevent what could have been a tragic incident,” the Commission added.
