The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has requested additional Hajj slots from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj and Umrah operations.
The request was made on Wednesday in Abuja when NAHCON hosted a delegation from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, led by Professor Ghassan Al-Nuaimi, ahead of the first official visit of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah to Nigeria.
According to a statement by the commission, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, briefed the delegation on Nigeria’s readiness for the 2026 Hajj, including early planning, airline engagements, accommodation arrangements in Makkah and Madinah, and pre-arrival data submission.
“No pilgrim would be allowed to depart Nigeria without complete documentation submitted at least 72 hours before departure, in line with Saudi regulations,” he stated.
He said key operational challenges discussed included reduced Hajj slots, accommodation constraints, airlift limitations and delays in the issuance of Umrah visas affecting tour operators.
According to the statement, NAHCON appealed, “for an increase in Nigeria’s Hajj allocation and Saudi intervention on accommodation placement and airline approvals.”
The commission also raised concerns over recurring visa challenges, which the Saudi delegation agreed to review through appropriate channels.
The Saudi officials emphasised strict adherence to international Hajj timelines, noting that early preparation is mandatory and that extensions may not be granted.
They also highlighted new health and safety requirements, including compliance with updated medical standards for pilgrims.
The commission had earlier said mandatory medical screening would be conducted for all registered pilgrims before visas are issued.
It added that pilgrims diagnosed with medical conditions of concern would not be permitted to undertake the 2026 Hajj.
NAHCON also outlined measures to address overstay concerns, including biometric data capture and a centralised pilgrim tracking system.
Meanwhile, the Rector of the Hajj Institute of Nigeria, Prof. Maitulare, called for the institute’s recognition by the Saudi Ministry, proposing its use for training Hajj managers and disseminating new Hajj and Umrah policies.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustained cooperation to ensure a safe and successful 2026 Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims.
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