The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has commenced early strategic engagements for the 2026 Hajj, hosting a high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah at the Hajj House in Abuja.
The Saudi delegation was led by Professor Dr. Ghassan Al-Nuaimi and the visit forms part of preparatory consultations ahead of the first official visit of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah to Nigeria, as well as early planning for the 2026 Hajj and Umrah operations.
Briefing the delegation, NAHCON Commissioner for Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, outlined Nigeria’s readiness for the 2026 Hajj, highlighting early planning initiatives, airline engagements, accommodation arrangements in Makkah and Madinah, and timely pre-arrival data submission. He stressed that no Nigerian pilgrim would be allowed to depart without complete documentation submitted at least 72 hours before departure, in strict compliance with Saudi regulations.
Discussions at the meeting also focused on key operational challenges, including reduced Hajj slots, accommodation constraints, airlift limitations, and Umrah visa delays affecting tour operators. NAHCON appealed for additional Hajj slots and Saudi intervention in accommodation allocation and airline approvals, while drawing attention to recurring visa challenges. The Saudi delegation acknowledged the concerns and assured that they would be reviewed through appropriate channels.
The Saudi officials emphasized the need for strict adherence to international Hajj timelines, warning that early preparation is mandatory and extensions may not be granted. They also highlighted new health and safety requirements, including compliance with updated medical standards for pilgrims.
Addressing overstay concerns, NAHCON disclosed plans to strengthen control measures through biometric data capture and the deployment of a centralized pilgrim tracking system.
Meanwhile, the Rector of the Hajj Institute of Nigeria, Professor Maitulare, called for formal recognition of the Institute by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. He proposed its adoption as a training hub for Hajj managers and a platform for disseminating new Hajj and Umrah policies. NAHCON further proposed structured capacity-building programmes for its staff through the Saudi Hajj and Umrah industry to improve service delivery to Nigerian pilgrims.
At the end of the meeting, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration. The Saudi delegation pledged continued technical support and engagement through diplomatic channels to ensure a safe, efficient, and successful 2026 Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims, in line with the vision of the NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman.
