A survey of Nigerian pilgrims has shown that most respondents prefer Misfala as the ideal accommodation location for Nigerian pilgrims in Makkah, citing its flat terrain, proximity to the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram), and ease of movement for elderly pilgrims and persons with disabilities.
The respondents described Misfala as more convenient because it offers a direct, less strenuous route to the Haram compared to other popular locations such as Shara Mansur and Ajyad.
MD Aliyu said Misfala remains the best option because of its accessibility. “The only advantage of Shara Mansur is the easy access to Nigerian local foods. Climbing the hill is not an easy task. Therefore, Misfala is highly recommended due to its proximity to Haram, no hilly walking distance and direct access to the Haram,” he said.
Similarly, Adamu Musa Bilal said he would always choose Misfala over Shara Mansur, noting that “Misfala to Haram is flat, while Shara Mansur to Haram is hill climbing all through. The only advantage of Shara Mansur is availability of local Nigerian dishes.”
Other respondents, including Kawu Chindo, Shehu Adamu and Awwal Bello, also endorsed Misfala, stressing that its flat road makes it more suitable for elderly pilgrims.
However, some participants preferred Ajyad because of its closeness to the Haram. Khalifa Giwa said, “Ajyad is the best and closer to King Abdulaziz Gate… I have stayed in Shara Mansur and Ajyad, and I know Misfala very well. Ajyad is the best out of the three places.”
Hajiya Shitta also backed Ajyad, saying she had stayed in all three locations and found it to be the closest to the Haram.
Meanwhile, several respondents described Shara Mansur as “Nigeria’s Oshodi” or a “mini Nigeria” because of the abundance of Nigerian restaurants and the large Nigerian community living in the area. Bakare Akeem said, “Shara Mansur is like our own Oshodi in Lagos. If you need correct Nigerian swallow with our local soup, Shara Mansur is the plug.”
Despite its appeal for Nigerian cuisine, many respondents agreed that the hilly terrain of Shara Mansur makes it less suitable for elderly pilgrims and people with disabilities.
