By Soliu Oyesiji
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has issued operational and safety guidelines for the performance of Rami al-Jamaraat during the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
In a circular sent to State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and tour operators, the commission said the directive was aimed at ensuring compliance with Saudi Arabia’s official Tafweej scheduling system and safeguarding pilgrims during the stoning ritual in Mina.
According to the guidelines, pilgrims are expected to stone only Jamrat al-Aqaba with seven pebbles on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, while 21 pebbles are to be used on each of the 11th and 12th days for the Sughra, Wusta and Kubra Jamaraat. The rite on the 13th day remains optional and must be completed before sunset.
NAHCON warned that movement between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. is prohibited, noting that Saudi authorities would enforce the restriction through surveillance cameras. It added that pilgrims must strictly adhere to their assigned Tafweej time slots or risk being turned back by security officials.
The commission also directed pilgrims to follow designated walking lanes, avoid stopping or using mobile phones inside the Jamaraat corridor, and remain in groups under assigned coordinators.
It further instructed state boards and tour operators to conduct simulation briefings before the 7th of Dhul Hijjah, appoint dedicated Jamaraat officers in Mina and arrange proxies for pilgrims unable to perform the rites themselves.
Group leaders were also asked to maintain headcounts, ensure pilgrims carry at least 49 pebbles collected from Muzdalifah, and submit daily completion reports to mission officials.
