By GARBA MUHAMMAD

A Nigerian pilgrim from Adamawa State, Mallama Aishatu Muhammadu, has passed away in Saudi Arabia during the ongoing 2026 Hajj exercise.

Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), conveyed the condolences of the Federal Government to the family of the deceased following her demise on May 9, 2026, at the age of 73.

According to the commission, Mallama Aishatu, who hailed from Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State, suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while travelling from Jeddah to the holy city of Madinah.

Ambassador Yusuf, in a telephone conversation with the deceased’s brother, Umaru Jauro Koko, prayed Almighty Allah to forgive her shortcomings and grant her Aljannatul Firdaus.

He also prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family to bear the loss.

The NAHCON chairman further assured the family of the Federal Government’s support in facilitating the safe return of the deceased pilgrim’s personal belongings, including her Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) and death certificate, through the Adamawa State Pilgrims Welfare Commission.

Mallama Aishatu is survived by children, grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Among her surviving relatives is Abdullahi Bello, Divisional Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ganye Division.

NAHCON management described her death as a painful loss and extended sympathies to the government and people of Adamawa State.