* NAHCON says agreement will strengthen pilgrims’ welfare and service delivery
Nigeria and Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2027 Hajj, outlining plans to strengthen pilgrimage operations and improve services for Nigerian pilgrims.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Super Dome in Jeddah by the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, and the Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, on behalf of their respective countries.
The signing was announced in a statement issued by NAHCON’s Head of Information and Publications, Shafii Sani Mohammed.
The MoU establishes a framework for Nigeria’s participation in the 2027 pilgrimage, covering quota allocation, compliance with Saudi Hajj regulations, operational deadlines and essential services, including accommodation, transportation and healthcare.
It also provides for closer cooperation between both countries in tackling logistical challenges, monitoring service delivery and protecting the welfare of pilgrims.
Speaking at the ceremony, Amb. Yusuf praised the Saudi government and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for their continued investment in pilgrimage infrastructure, improvements in Hajj arrangements and sustained cooperation with Nigeria.
He said NAHCON was committed to consolidating the gains through stronger institutional collaboration and improved services for Nigerian pilgrims.
In his remarks, Mashat disclosed that Saudi Arabia recorded a 93 per cent pilgrim satisfaction rate during the 2026 Hajj, acknowledging Nigeria’s contribution to the achievement.
He also commended Nigeria for meeting the established operational timelines for the 2027 pilgrimage and urged NAHCON to maintain the pace of preparation.
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 work with state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards, licensed tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to coordinate preparations, monitor service delivery and address potential challenges before the commencement of the 2027 Hajj.
Sponsored
Sponsored
Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Global Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Discover more from Muslim News Nigeria
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.