The Nigerian Hajj contingent has on Monday recorded the death of a 75-year-old pilgrim from Edo State, Adizatu Dazumi, during the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
Dazumi, a native of Jattu Uzairue in the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, was said to have died at King Fahad General Hospital in Makkah after a brief illness.
The elderly pilgrim had reportedly completed the Tawaaf ritual, the circumambulation of the Kaaba, before taking ill.
She was admitted to the hospital on Sunday and died the following day.
The Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Musah Uduimoh, confirmed the development on Tuesday.
“She was buried in Makkah on the same day, according to Islamic tradition, and her family in Jattu Uzairue has been informed,” Uduimoh said, according to PUNCH.
He extended his condolences to the family and reassured the public that the board remains committed to ensuring the health and safety of all pilgrims.
Dazumi’s death adds to a growing list of health-related incidents involving pilgrims during the annual Islamic pilgrimage, a physically demanding spiritual journey that draws millions of Muslims to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
In previous years, Nigerian pilgrims have faced similar tragedies. Travel guides
In 2023, at least four Nigerian pilgrims died during the Hajj due to underlying medical conditions exacerbated by the intense heat and stress of the rituals.
Saudi authorities and various national Hajj boards have since taken steps to enhance safety, including increased medical screening, improved health services, and pilgrim orientation programmes.
Nonetheless, the rigors of the pilgrimage remain challenging, especially for elderly participants.
As the 2025 Hajj continues, Nigerian officials urge pilgrims to stay hydrated, follow medical advice, and promptly report any symptoms of illness.
