By Soliu Oyesiji
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has cautioned Nigerians against fraudulent individuals and travel agencies claiming to offer Hajj visas, following the official closure of visa issuance by Saudi authorities.
In a public notice, the commission said the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ended the issuance of Hajj visas on March 20, 2026, adding that all eligible Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 exercise had already been processed before the deadline.
NAHCON warned that there are no alternative visa options for performing Hajj, stressing that tourist, work or Umrah visas cannot be used for the pilgrimage.
The commission also highlighted strict penalties imposed by Saudi authorities on violators, including up to six months’ imprisonment, fines of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals, and deportation with a 10-year re-entry ban.
It urged the public to rely only on approved channels, including state pilgrims welfare boards and the official Nusuk platform, for Hajj-related processes.
The commission further advised Nigerians to avoid making payments to individuals or agencies promising “guaranteed Hajj visas,” and to report suspected fraud to security agencies.
