By Mahmud Babangida Beli
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is currently undertaking what is considered the most critical assignment in the annual Hajj preparatory calendar: the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and participation in the Hajj and Umrah Expo. This visit sets the tone for all logistical and administrative arrangements.
The MoU signing between the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, facilitated by NAHCON, is a bi-national event where agreements defining Nigeria’s Hajj participation for the year are formalized. This event takes place within a diplomatic corridor, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding between the two nations.
During the MoU process, Saudi authorities finalize Nigeria’s pilgrims’ quota, seek cooperation on Hajj policies, and establish other service standards within the Kingdom. By signing the MoU, Nigeria endorses the framework under which its pilgrims will be cared for in Makkah, Madinah, and throughout the sacred rites.
Beyond the MoU, the delegation will participate in the Hajj and Umrah Expo—a global gathering that brings together all major stakeholders in the Hajj industry. The Expo serves as a marketplace for innovation, policy dialogue, and collaboration. It offers a unique opportunity for research into the Hajj and Umrah sector and provides a platform to engage with technology developers and global Hajj administrators to learn emerging best practices. Additionally, the forum allows for direct negotiation with Saudi service providers to secure optimal deals.
Importantly, the pre-Hajj visit enables early inspection of accommodation, catering, and transport facilities. This allows the Commission, in collaboration with state authorities, to identify and rectify potential service lapses. Although late payment of Hajj fares can hinder the effectiveness of these plans, early engagements typically result in fewer logistical hiccups and cost savings.
This visit lays the foundation for the success of the 2026 Hajj. It reflects Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation and continuous improvement in managing Hajj operations.
READ ALSO: NAHCON releases list of Licensed Tour Operators for 2026 Hajj and Umrah
So far, inspections have been ongoing in Madinah for catering and accommodation services, while another team continues screening documents of service providers in Makkah. Similarly, the Commissioner in charge of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, has engaged private tour operators in a preparatory meeting aimed at finalizing the selection of service providers.
The delegation includes members of the National Assembly, representatives of the NAHCON Board, State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, the Presidency, and NAHCON staff.
NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has charged the entourage to work diligently to ensure that the outcome of this visit delivers a more successful Hajj than last year’s experience.
Beli writes from the NAHCON Information and Publications Division.
