• issues consolatory message, warns tour operators against transacting with third parties for Muna tent A+
More than 2,000 intending pilgrims from Nigeria will miss the 2025 Hajj as efforts by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to get the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reopen the visa portal hit a brick wall.
The number comes from both state pilgrims welfare boards and private tour operators, according to a statement issued by the Nigerian Hajj body.
“In light of the above, NAHCON wishes to console those affected by the visa closure to have faith knowing that Hajj is an answer to Allah’s call,” the statement signed by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, read.
Saudi Arabia shut the visa portal on May 19, with over 1 million people entering the Kingdom from across different countries of the world.
NAHCON meanwhile advised all intending pilgrims to always plan for their Hajj ahead of deadlines to avoid disappointments.
The Commission said it has had to facilitate extension of deadlines on four different occasions for Hajj fare remittance and visa issuance.
“Yet, despite several warnings signalling end of visa issuance by April 19, 2025, with its attendant consequences, some intending pilgrims came late with their Hajj payments. Out of consideration following numerous requests for the Commission to continue accepting Hajj fares, NAHCON formally requested an extension of visa processing, which was graciously approved.
“However, further access to visa issuance was blocked since May 19, 2025. The one month extension from 19th April had provided much-needed relief for some State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards that were still accepting late payments as well as Tour Operators who were still finalizing travel and accommodation plans for their clients,” the statement said.
NAHCON revealed that the visa suspension affected a total of 2, 717 intending pilgrims who came late with registration from both the states and private operators sides.
“By the time of visa blockage, 13,217 visas were granted Tour Operator Companies out of 14,158 registered pilgrims, indicating strong participation from the private Hajj sector,” it said
In another development, the Commission warned private tour operators against transacting with third parties for premium Tent A+ services at Muna.
The Commission said it only recognises the Rawaf Mina Company and would not be held responsible for consequences of arrangements made outside of the authorised channel.
“Tour operators are therefore strongly urged not to engage in dealings that could compromise the welfare of their pilgrims or violate Saudi regulations,” the statement read.
The over 1 million Muslims participating in the 2025 Hajj from across the world are expected to gather at Mina on Wednesday to make supplications and pass the night before moving to Arafah.
NAHCON appealed to all stakeholders to align their operations with officially endorsed guidelines
“The Commission continues to engage relevant Saudi authorities to safeguard the interests of Nigerian pilgrims and ensure that both private and public sector operators deliver services that meet international standards,” the statement said.
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