Nigerian Pilgrims Raise Concerns Over Feeding, Accommodation Arrangements in Mina
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Some Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise have expressed concerns over aspects of the 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.
Several pilgrims said 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.
Despite the complaints, some pilgrims acknowledged the logistical challenges usually associated with catering for millions of pilgrims during the Hajj season and appealed for improvements in subsequent feeding 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.
