National Hajj Commission of Nigeria Clarifies 2026 Hajj Slot Adjustment, Tightens Medical Screening Rules
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has moved to clear the air on the 2026 Hajj slot adjustment, medical screening requirements, visa processing procedures, and ongoing operational reforms following a strategic engagement with licensed tour operators.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ismail Yusuf Abba, reaffirmed that the Commission operates strictly as a regulatory body responsible for licensing, supervision, and ensuring compliance within Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry.
He stressed that performance monitoring mechanisms would be intensified, warning that violations could attract sanctions, including suspension or outright revocation of operational licences.
Saudi Authorities Determine Hajj Quotas
Addressing concerns surrounding the adjustment of additional Hajj slots, the Commission clarified that the decision emanated from global allocation determinations by Saudi Hajj authorities.
NAHCON emphasized that national quotas are fixed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia based on operational capacity and safety considerations, noting that the Commission does not possess the authority to independently alter or increase Nigeria’s approved quota.
The Commission urged stakeholders and the public to disregard claims of internal manipulation or discriminatory allocation, affirming that distribution is being handled equitably within the approved framework.
Tour operators who reported financial exposure due to prior contractual commitments were advised to submit formal representations with verifiable documentation. NAHCON assured that legitimate cases would be reviewed through appropriate regulatory and diplomatic channels.
Medical Screening Now Restricted to Government Hospitals
The Head of NAHCON’s Medical Team, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, disclosed that compulsory medical screening certificates are directly linked to visa issuance requirements.
To curb abuse and falsification, medical certification has now been restricted to recognised government hospitals. Each certificate must carry proper physician identification, including registration with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, to ensure authenticity and accountability.
The Commission explained that:
The measure is designed to eliminate falsification of medical records.
Screening compliance is already significantly underway nationwide.
The requirement aligns strictly with Saudi visa processing timelines.
NAHCON warned that submission of falsified or unreliable medical information would attract serious consequences, noting that while timelines are tight, urgency is necessary to prevent visa delays.
Visa Processing and Reform Resistance
On visa processing arrangements, the Commission explained that the current framework was inherited and subsequently reviewed in response to operational realities, including past cases of abscondment.
NAHCON revealed that reform efforts have faced resistance from certain interests that benefit from opaque processes. However, it reaffirmed its commitment to building a structured, transparent, and accountable system that prioritises the collective interest of pilgrims and operators.
Government reform initiatives, the Commission added, are aimed at strengthening efficiency, regulatory oversight, and transparency across Hajj and Umrah operations.
Sanctions for Breaches, Recognition for Compliance
The Commission stressed the importance of sincerity, cooperation, and responsible conduct among stakeholders, warning against actions capable of undermining ongoing reforms.
It reiterated that:
Credible and compliant companies will be recognised and encouraged.
Regulatory breaches and misconduct will attract sanctions.
Professionalism and compliance remain non-negotiable.
The Chairman also directed NAHCON’s Media Unit to enhance proactive communication and ensure timely clarification of developments affecting pilgrims and tour operators.
Post-Hajj Consultations Planned
On broader issues concerning Umrah operations, service provider arrangements, and financial concerns raised by operators, NAHCON announced plans to convene a comprehensive consultative meeting after the 2026 Hajj exercise to develop binding resolutions and long-term improvements.
For now, the Commission said its primary focus remains on delivering a smooth and successful Hajj 2026 for Nigerian pilgrims.
Stakeholders and the general public were advised to rely solely on official NAHCON communications for verified and accurate information.