Hajj: Nigerian pilgrims cry out over poor accommodation, meals in Minna, Arafat

Some Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise have expressed concerns over poor services being provided in Mina, particularly feeding and accommodation arrangements under the Mashariq Dhabiya service provider.

The complaints, which surfaced during the pilgrims’ stay in the holy sites, centered on the type and quantity of meals being served, as well as bedding conditions.

DAILY POST reports that, Several pilgrims have claimed that the meals provided since their arrival in Mina have largely remained the same, with Jollof rice reportedly being the major dish served both in Arafat and Mina.

Some of the pilgrims also noted the absence of local Nigerian dishes, which they said were available during previous Hajj operations under different service providers.

Others expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as limited food portions, while some claimed that many pilgrims were unable to eat the meals provided.

Concerns were also raised about accommodation materials, as some pilgrims alleged that only mattresses and beddings were supplied without blankets.

Pilgrims acknowledged the logistical challenges usually associated with feeding for millions of pilgrims during the Hajj season and appealed for improvements in subsequent arrangements.

The service provider, Mashariq Dhabiya, which is responsible for the welfare and logistics of pilgrims in the Mashair areas, had yet to officially respond to the concerns as of the time of filing this report.

The development has continued to generate discussions among pilgrims and stakeholders over the need for improved welfare services, particularly in the area of feeding and comfort during the spiritually demanding Hajj rites.

Responding, a Hajj officials said, ” please be informed that the Saudi health authorities have continued to enforce strict food safety standards to ensure the wellbeing of all pilgrims during the Hajj period, especially considering the prevailing weather conditions.”

Fatima Sanda Usara, the Deputy Director Information said, “As part of these routine health measures, some dinner meals from last night’s service, 27th May 2026, did not meet the required handling and packaging standards and were therefore rejected immediately in collaboration with NAHCON.”

Alternative light refreshment was provided by the service support company to cushion the situation. NAHCON Board members had since gone round to explain the situation to the affected State managers.