The Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has briefed the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. This took place during a virtual meeting aimed at ensuring smooth collaboration and efficient planning for the upcoming pilgrimage.
Prof. Usman outlined key milestones, including the successful securing of camp booking slots in line with the Saudi Hajj calendar, and informed the Ministry that the process of appointing air carriers for the 2026 operation is nearing completion. NAHCON is set to finalize and announce the list of approved airlines shortly.
In addition, Prof. Usman provided updates on the screening of Tour Operators, with the grouping of companies remaining consistent with previous years. He confirmed that the camp zones allocated in 2025 would be maintained for the upcoming Hajj.
The Saudi Ministry’s representative, Youssef Jamal Altharthi, commended NAHCON’s proactive approach, stressing the importance of early submission of pilgrims’ data and adherence to health guidelines. Altharthi also introduced a new policy that requires pilgrims to receive their Nusuk cards upon arrival at the airport, rather than at hotels or during departure to Makkah, in a bid to streamline the process.
Prof. Usman reiterated NAHCON’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience for Nigerian pilgrims while maintaining close collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The meeting also included key NAHCON officials, such as Prof. Abubakar A. Yagawal, Prince Anofi Olarenwaju Elegushi, Alh. Mohammed Ali, Alh. Alidu Shutti, and Dr. Danbaba Haruna.
