By Soliu Oyesiji
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has directed State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to refund intending pilgrims who will be unable to travel for the 2026 Hajj, following the confirmation of Nigeria’s allocation of 40,250 slots, excluding tour operators.
The directive was issued during a stakeholders’ meeting held at Hajj House in Abuja, attended by commissioners, board members, state executive secretaries and members of the medical mission team.
NAHCON chairman, Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the reduction in Hajj quota is a global development affecting several countries and not targeted at Nigeria. He explained that the adjustment was due to logistical and regulatory considerations by Saudi authorities.
According to him, uploaded data from states exceeded the approved 40,250 allocation, necessitating urgent reconciliation to prevent visa processing bottlenecks. He urged states to withdraw excess entries and ensure that affected pilgrims are promptly refunded to avoid financial disputes and maintain public trust.
The commission reiterated that Saudi authorities have fixed a firm visa deadline of 1st Shawwal, with no extension expected. States were therefore instructed to conclude medical screenings, documentation and data uploads within the operational timeline.
NAHCON also warned against last-minute substitutions on flight manifests due to system integration between airline bookings and accommodation arrangements.
The commission reaffirmed that while State Pilgrims Welfare Boards remain custodians of intending pilgrims, NAHCON’s role is strictly regulatory to ensure compliance and a smooth Hajj operation.
