National Hajj Commission of Nigeria Rules Out Slot Increase for 2026 as Visa Issuance Begins in 72 Hours
By Mariam Zubair Abubakar
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that there will be no upward review of Nigeria’s Hajj allocation for 2026, affirming that the approved 50,000 pilgrimage slots remain final for both state pilgrims’ welfare boards and licensed tour operators.
The announcement was made during a high-level virtual meeting between NAHCON and licensed travel operators, including executives and members of the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) and the Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria (HUTON).
Reduction Described as Global Reality
Speaking at the meeting, the newly appointed NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, described the reduction in slots as a “global reality” affecting all participating countries, not Nigeria alone.
He explained that Saudi authorities had adjusted allocations across board, making it impossible for Nigeria to secure additional slots beyond the 50,000 already approved.
According to NAHCON, all stakeholders — including state boards and private operators — must therefore work strictly within the allocated quota to avoid disruptions in planning and logistics.
Visa Issuance to Begin in 72 Hours
In a significant development, the Commission disclosed that visa issuance for the 2026 Hajj is expected to commence within the next 72 hours. The move is aimed at ensuring timely processing of travel documents and smooth coordination with Saudi authorities.
Tour operators were urged to finalize documentation, complete necessary payments, and ensure compliance with all guidelines to avoid delays once the visa window opens.
Call for Cooperation
NAHCON emphasized the need for unity and cooperation among stakeholders, assuring operators that efforts are ongoing to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience despite the reduced quota.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency and fairness in the distribution of available slots, urging all parties to align with the new realities and focus on efficient planning ahead of the pilgrimage season.
Further updates are expected as visa processing officially begins.