By Nafisat Makinde
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, at approximately 12:00 noon (KSA time), a potentially disastrous situation was averted when a fire broke out at the Imaratus Sanan Hotel on Shari Mansur Street in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The hotel was hosting 484 Nigerian pilgrims from six Private Tour Operator Companies. Fortunately, all 484 pilgrims narrowly escaped the fire, thanks to the swift response of Saudi authorities and hotel management.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed that the prompt emergency response helped contain the fire, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the hotel. NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, promptly visited the location, expressing concern and ordering the immediate relocation of the affected pilgrims. “We’re grateful that no lives were lost. Our priority now is ensuring the pilgrims’ safety and comfort,” he said.
The Saudi authorities and hotel management played a crucial role in responding to the fire, which occurred on June 7, 2025, at around noon. NAHCON appreciated their efforts, with Professor Usman stating, “The prompt response of the Saudi authorities and hotel staff was commendable.” The 484 pilgrims have been relocated to a new building, and NAHCON is working closely with the affected tour operators to ensure their welfare.
The incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and response in crowded areas like Makkah during the Hajj season. Thankfully, no casualties were reported among the 484 Nigerian pilgrims, and they are now safe in their new accommodations. NAHCON’s swift action and the Saudi authorities’ prompt response ensured the pilgrims’ safety and well-being.
