By Olugbenga Salami
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has urged Nigerian pilgrims to prioritize health and safety as temperatures soar to 50 degrees Celsius during Day 3 of the 2026 Hajj.
Pilgrims commenced the symbolic stoning of the devil at the Jamarat on Day 3, after passing the night at Muzdalifah on Day 2.
The stoning of Jamarat is a key rite of Hajj, obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically competent.
However, Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology, NMC, has predicted a severe heatwave across the Kingdom during the days of Hajj at the Masha’ir.
The NMC said temperatures in some parts would reach 50 degrees Celsius, while other areas would record between 47 and 50 degrees Celsius.
To protect pilgrims, Saudi authorities have banned movement to the Jamarat between 10am and 2pm daily during the Hajj period.
Responding to the extreme weather, NAHCON issued an advisory to Nigerian pilgrims on health precautions.
The Commission urged pilgrims to drink plenty of fluids, use umbrellas, and avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun between 10am and 4pm.
“As temperature soars and you continue to go about your Hajj rites, pilgrims are strongly advised to prioritise their health and safety while engaging in acts of worship,” NAHCON said.
“Always use an umbrella, stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun between 10am and 4pm, and rest whenever necessary,” the Commission advised.
NAHCON said pilgrims need to protect themselves against heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.
Health officials warn that heat exhaustion can lead to dizziness, dehydration, fainting and, in severe cases, heatstroke, especially for the elderly and those with underlying conditions.
Pilgrims were reminded that protecting their health is also part of fulfilling the Hajj rites safely.
The Commission said it is working with Saudi authorities and Nigerian medical teams on the ground to monitor pilgrims’ welfare during the Masha’ir days.
NAHCON prayed for a safe completion of the rites for all Nigerian pilgrims and a hitch-free return home.
