A fire incident occurred at the Imaratus Sanan Hotel in Makkah on Saturday, where 484 Nigerian pilgrims were accommodated. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, according to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON. The fire broke out at noon while the pilgrims were fulfilling their obligations in Mina.

NAHCON’s Assistant Director, Information and Publications Division, Fatima Usara, stated that the hotel was hosting pilgrims from six Nigerian Private Tour Operator Companies. She expressed relief that the swift response from Saudi authorities and hotel management helped contain the fire, preventing it from spreading throughout the building.

Following the incident, NAHCON’s Chairman/CEO, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, promptly visited the location to assess the situation and prioritize the welfare of the affected pilgrims. Accompanied by Commissioner Policy Personnel Management and Finance, Alhaji Aliu Abdulrazak, and Deputy Makkah Coordinator, Director Alidu Shutti, Mr. Saleh ordered the immediate relocation of the pilgrims to new accommodations.

Mr. Saleh commiserated with the affected pilgrims, assuring them that the commission would provide all necessary support to cushion the impact of the incident. He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost and promised to work with the affected tour operators to ensure the pilgrims receive the necessary assistance. The NAHCON team appreciated the prompt response of the Saudi emergency services and the cooperation of the hotel staff in managing the situation.

The incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and response in ensuring the safety of pilgrims during the Hajj season. With the Saudi authorities and NAHCON working together, the affected pilgrims are being relocated and provided with the necessary support to continue their pilgrimage.