By DEJI ABDULWAHAB

The Saudi Arabian Armed Forces have deployed more than 40,000 security personnel for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the security personnel are being deployed across key pilgrimage sites including Makkah, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah

Lt.- Gen. Mohammed Al-Bassami, Director of Public Security and Chairman of the Hajj Security Committee, reaffirmed that the safety of pilgrims remained a top priority.

Speaking at a high-profile security forces parade and military drills in Makkah ahead of Hajj 2025, Al-Bassami said, “Hajj security is a red line”.

“Our forces are fully prepared and ready, with utmost determination and force to confront everything that may disturb the peace of the guests of Allah.

“We are committed to ensuring that pilgrims perform their rituals in ease and comfort.

“The security blueprint also includes enhanced surveillance, emergency response protocols, and traffic management measures to accommodate the movement of over a million pilgrims,” he said.

Interior Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud, also oversaw the military exercises conducted by the Hajj security forces, which included coordinated displays involving troops, helicopters, and an array of military hardware.

NAN reports that the drills are aimed at demonstrating the preparedness and operational readiness of the security apparatus tasked with safeguarding the annual pilgrimage.

During the exercises, security forces marched in formation while specialised units, including commandos, carried out tactical demonstrations, reflecting the comprehensive security strategy for the Hajj.

Helicopters hovered overhead as ground units simulated emergency response scenarios designed to neutralise potential threats and ensure the smooth flow of pilgrims across holy sites. (NAN)