NAHCON, SAUDI MINISTRY OF HAJJ AND UMRAH HOLD VIRTUAL MEETING ON 2026 HAJJ PREPARATIONS

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Monday, 25th August 2025, participated in a virtual meeting with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to deliberate on preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The session was chaired by Ustaz Abdallah Ash Shihry, Acting Director-General and SA to the Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

During the meeting, Saudi authorities reiterated key deadlines that must be strictly adhered to. These include the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in November; finalizing camp booking payments and confirming service contract packages by 4th January; and uploading of transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar Portal by 1st February.

The authorities further stressed that 1st of Shawwal remains the final deadline for visa issuance, with no extensions.

Officials expressed concerns over recurring delays from some quarters in Nigeria, warning that late preparations could negatively affect the welfare and overall experience of pilgrims.

The Ministry also urged NAHCON to sensitize intending pilgrims on the grave consequences of visa violations. It warned that anyone caught performing Hajj without a valid Hajj visa would face a fine of 20,000 Saudi Riyals (₦8,158,344) and imprisonment.

In addition, the Saudi side emphasized that all Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings must be conducted exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform.

Reassuring the host country, NAHCON pledged its commitment to ensuring full compliance with all guidelines and deadlines. The Commission’s Chairman noted that NAHCON would work closely with relevant stakeholders to guarantee the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and deliver a smooth, well-coordinated, and successful 2026 Hajj operation.