Hajj Commission Rejects Poor Meals Served to Nigerian Pilgrims in Saudi

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has rejected some meals supplied to Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia after the food reportedly failed to meet required health and packaging standards during the ongoing 2026 Hajj operations.

The commission said the affected meals, served on Tuesday night, May 27, were withdrawn in collaboration with Saudi Arabian health authorities following concerns over improper handling and packaging.

In a statement issued by the commission, NAHCON explained that Saudi authorities had intensified food safety enforcement because of the harsh weather conditions currently being experienced in the Kingdom.

The commission said the decision to reject the meals was taken to safeguard pilgrims from possible health complications.

Chairman of NAHCON, Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the commission acted immediately after the alleged violations were detected.

According to the statement, alternative refreshments were quickly provided for affected pilgrims to reduce the inconvenience caused by the incident.

It added that members of the NAHCON board also visited state officials and camp managers to explain the situation and reassure pilgrims of the commission’s commitment to their welfare.

The commission said Ambassador Yusuf had directed its security committee to investigate the caterers involved in the food supply arrangement as well as officials linked to the contracts.

NAHCON also disclosed that a separate investigation had been ordered into allegations against some tour operators accused of bringing in pilgrims beyond approved quotas and exploiting intending pilgrims during the exercise.

The commission warned that any operator found culpable after investigations would face sanctions, including possible withdrawal of operating licences.

“NAHCON appreciates the understanding of the pilgrims and reassures all of its continued commitment to their welfare throughout the Hajj exercise,” the statement said.

The commission further revealed that arrangements were already underway to refund pilgrims affected by the rejected meals.

Nigeria is one of the countries with one of the largest contingents of pilgrims participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, with thousands of Muslims travelling each year for the religious exercise.

Food quality, accommodation, transportation and medical support remain major areas of concern during Hajj operations due to the large number of pilgrims gathered in the holy cities under extreme weather conditions.

Saudi authorities have in recent years tightened health and safety regulations for food vendors and service providers handling pilgrims’ welfare during the pilgrimage.