Soliu Oyesiji.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has directed all State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions to complete data capturing for intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj by February 8, 2026.
The directive is contained in a circular dated January 9, 2026, and signed by Ibrahim I. Mahmud on behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NAHCON. It was addressed to all executive chairmen, secretaries and directors of state pilgrims’ welfare boards nationwide.
According to NAHCON, the deadline is in line with guidelines issued by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which require that the data of all intending pilgrims be fully captured within the stipulated period.
The commission urged state pilgrims’ welfare boards to work assiduously to conclude the exercise in good time, noting that compliance is critical to ensuring smooth planning and coordination of the 2026 Hajj operations.
NAHCON added that timely data capturing would enhance inclusiveness, efficiency and seamless collaboration with Saudi authorities ahead of the pilgrimage, while assuring stakeholders of its commitment to a successful 2026 Hajj exercise for Nigerian pilgrims.
