By Soliu Oyesiji
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has inaugurated the Principal Officers Committee of the National Medical Team for the 2026 Hajj, signalling tougher health protocols for Nigerian pilgrims.
Speaking at the ceremony, NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Abba Yusuf, said the health and safety of pilgrims remain the commission’s top priority in line with regulations by the Saudi authorities.
He stressed that only pilgrims certified medically fit and free from specified diseases would be cleared to travel.
Yusuf directed that all medical clearance forms must carry the issuing doctor’s registration number with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), warning that Saudi officials would conduct random checks at entry points. He added that any medically unfit pilgrim would be repatriated, while erring personnel risk sanctions.
The chairman also announced an additional screening stage at departure centres as a final verification before airlift.
Head of the National Medical Team, Ibrahim Abubakar, assured the commission of full compliance. He said plans were in place for comprehensive screening, strict accountability and deployment of an Electronic Medical Records system for real-time monitoring and reporting.
NAHCON said the Principal Officers are mandated to coordinate all medical activities, ensure quality clinical care, disease surveillance, infection prevention and emergency response, and manage medical supplies and logistics in line with Saudi health regulations.
The report was filed by Yusuf Kulloma from NAHCON.
