The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has directed State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to immediately refund intending pilgrims who could not be registered for the 2026 Hajj, as Saudi Arabia’s visa deadline approaches. The meeting was attended by commissioners, board members, executive secretaries and chairmen of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, members of the Forum of State Executive Secretaries, the Medical Mission team and management staff. Nigeria’s allocation for the 2026 Hajj stands at 40,250 pilgrims, excluding tour operators. NAHCON also disclosed that it would strictly monitor airline performance during the Hajj operations, warning that underperforming carriers could have pilgrims reassigned to better-performing airlines. Yusuf reaffirmed that State Pilgrims Welfare Boards remain the primary custodians of intending pilgrims, while NAHCON’s role is regulatory, emphasising unity, professionalism and collective responsibility in ensuring a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj operation.

Source: Punch February 24, 2026 06:50 UTC