The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued an official circular outlining operational, safety, and jurisprudential guidelines for the performance of the 2026 Jamaraat rites during Hajj.
According to the commission, the directives are aimed at ensuring strict compliance with Saudi Arabia’s official Tafweej scheduling system while promoting the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims during the symbolic stoning of the Jamaraat in Mina.
The circular was addressed to all State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and registered tour operator companies for onward dissemination to scholars, group leaders, officials, and pilgrims.
KEY SCHEDULE FOR RAMI AL-JAMARAAT
NAHCON stated that pilgrims are expected to observe the following sequence during the days of stoning:
- 10th Dhul Hijjah (Yawmu al-Nahr):
Pilgrims will stone only Jamrat al-Aqaba (Kubra) using 7 pebbles. - 11th Dhul Hijjah (1st Day of Tashreeq):
Pilgrims will stone Sughra, Wusta, and Kubra using a total of 21 pebbles. - 12th Dhul Hijjah (2nd Day of Tashreeq):
Pilgrims will again stone Sughra, Wusta, and Kubra with 21 pebbles. - 13th Dhul Hijjah (3rd Day of Tashreeq – Optional):
Pilgrims observing the final day are to complete the stoning before sunset using 21 pebbles.
CRITICAL SAFETY RULES
NAHCON emphasized that movement to the Jamaraat complex between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM is strictly prohibited, noting that Saudi authorities will enforce compliance through surveillance systems and security personnel.
The commission also directed that all pilgrim groups must adhere strictly to their assigned Tafweej time slots, warning that violators may be denied access by security officials.
Other safety measures include:
- Pilgrims must follow designated walking routes and one-way movement systems.
- Wheelchair users will not be allowed inside the Jamaraat complex.
- Stopping, sitting, or using mobile phones inside the corridors is prohibited.
- Groups consisting of approximately 180 pilgrims must remain together under assigned coordinators.
- Participating countries are encouraged to ensure at least 50 percent of pilgrims remain until the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF TOUR OPERATORS AND GROUP LEADERS
The commission tasked State Pilgrims Welfare Boards and tour operators with conducting orientation and simulation briefings before the 7th of Dhul Hijjah.
Operators are also expected to appoint dedicated Jamaraat officers in Mina and maintain accurate real-time headcounts of pilgrims.
Group leaders were instructed to:
- Confirm official movement schedules from Tafweej authorities.
- Assemble pilgrims at least 10 minutes before their assigned slot.
- Conduct headcounts before and after each Rami exercise.
- Ensure every pilgrim carries a minimum of 49 chickpea-sized pebbles collected from Muzdalifah.
- Submit daily written or WhatsApp reports after completion of each day’s rites.
NAHCON concluded by praying for the acceptance of the Hajj of all pilgrims and for a safe and spiritually rewarding pilgrimage exercise.
