By Pelumi Adesokan
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2027 Hajj, setting out a framework for improved pilgrimage operations and better services for Nigerian pilgrims.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Super Dome in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, signed on behalf of Nigeria, while Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, signed for the Kingdom.
The agreement provides a framework for coordinating Nigeria’s participation in the pilgrimage, including quota allocation, compliance with Saudi regulations, adherence to operational deadlines and arrangements for essential services such as accommodation, transportation and healthcare.
It also provides for closer cooperation between both countries to address logistical challenges, monitor service standards and protect the welfare of pilgrims.
Speaking at the ceremony, Yusuf commended the Saudi government and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for sustained investment in pilgrimage infrastructure, improvements in Hajj arrangements and continued engagement with Nigeria.
He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to strengthening institutional collaboration and improving services for Nigerian pilgrims.
In his remarks, Mashat disclosed that Saudi Arabia recorded a 93 per cent pilgrim satisfaction rate during the 2026 Hajj, commending Nigeria for contributing to the achievement.
He also praised Nigeria for meeting established operational timelines ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage and urged NAHCON to sustain the progress.
The ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo, and members of the National Assembly led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage, Hon. Jafar Mohammed, alongside other senior officials.
Following the signing, NAHCON is expected to coordinate with state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards, licensed Hajj tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to align operational arrangements, monitor service delivery and address potential challenges ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage.
