The ministry declared that anyone caught performing hajj without a hajj visa will face a penalty of 20,000 Saudi Riyals (N8.158 million) and imprisonment.
– We’ll work with stakeholders to ensure smooth operations: Prof Saleh
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) said that the Saudi Authorities have set deadlines for the 2026 Hajj operations, saying the deadlines remain sacrosanct to ensure a smooth, well-coordinated, and successful exercise.
NAHCON said in a statement issued by its Information Officer, Malam Abdulbasit Abba, after the virtual meeting with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to discuss critical timelines and preparations for the 2026 hajj exercise.
The meeting, held on Monday, August 25, was chaired by Ustaz Abdallah Ash Shihry, Acting Director-General and Special Adviser to the Deputy Minister in the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
gathered that in the course of the meeting, the Saudi authorities reiterated the important deadlines that remain sacrosanct, including the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in November (2025).
“Jan. 4, 2026, is the last day to finalise camp booking payments and confirmation of service contract packages.
“Feb. 1, 2026, has been set as the deadline for uploading of transport and accommodation contracts on Nusuk Masar Portal, while the first of Shawwal remains strictly the deadline for visa issuance. Representatives of the Ministry stressed that these deadlines will not shift.
According to the information officer, the Saudi authorities have also appealed to NAHCON to remind Nigerian intending pilgrims of the consequences of visa violation.
“The ministry declared that anyone caught performing hajj without a hajj visa will face a penalty of 20,000 Saudi Riyals (N8.158 million) and imprisonment.
“In addition, it emphasised that all Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings must be carried out exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform,” he said.
Officials from the Saudi Ministry also expressed concern over recurring delays on the part of some hajj administrators, warning that late preparations could negatively impact pilgrims’ welfare and overall hajj experience.
No extension of Saudi deadlines, NAHCON warns stakeholders
Recall that Prof Saleh has urged all stakeholders to comply with the timelines set by the Saudi Arabian authorities, warning that there would be no deadline extensions for visa processing, payments, or contractual agreements.
Speaking at a post-2025 Hajj stakeholders’ meeting with licensed tour operators at the Hajj House headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, August 21, he reaffirmed commitment to working closely with Saudi authorities and all relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth operations.
In a statement by Shafi’i Sani Mohammed of the commission’s Information and Publications Division, Prof Saleh expressed deep appreciation to the State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, private tour operators, and service providers for their immense contributions to the success of the 2025 hajj operations.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which enabled Nigerian pilgrims to perform hajj with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind.
“The Commission is committed to collaboration, fairness, and transparency,” Professor Usman said. “At the same time, we expect total compliance from all stakeholders as we work together to improve service delivery and meet global best practices.”
Speaking on the operational guidelines for the 2026 hajj, Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, issued a strong caution to stakeholders to strictly follow the official Saudi hajj calendar and make early preparations.
Addressing the financial aspect of preparations, NAHCON Commissioner of Policy, Personnel, Management and Finance (PPMF), Prince Aliu AbdulRazaq, briefed participants on refunds, pending complaints, and payment processes.
He urged licensed tour operators to make early and timely payments for all hajj-related obligations, noting that Saudi authorities will not grant extensions for contractual agreements or visa processing in 2026.
Similarly, Commissioner Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS), Professor Abubakar Yagawal also commended tour operators on their 2025 hajj successful outing and conduct.
He also called on all for continued cooperation with the Commission and ensure early payment and preparations for an improved 2026 hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
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