By Sani Mohammed Shafi’i
In a remarkable demonstration of strategic foresight and efficiency, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has successfully secured Mashair accommodations for 52,544 Nigerian pilgrims ahead of the critical February 14th deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU).
This milestone, achieved under the dynamic leadership of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, ensures that Nigerian pilgrims—both those traveling under government quotas and private tour operators—will have guaranteed spaces for the sacred Hajj rituals in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
This achievement underscores NAHCON’s commitment to proactive planning, stakeholder engagement, and decisive leadership—all of which are crucial for ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience for Nigerians in 2025.
Securing 52,544 and more Spaces in Mashair
With over 52,000 intending pilgrims expected to participate in the 2025 Hajj, NAHCON has left no stone unturned in ensuring their comfort and convenience during one of the most spiritually significant journeys in Islam. By fully securing these spaces ahead of the February 14 deadline, the Commission has positioned Nigeria itself as one of the countries to finalize accommodation arrangements for its pilgrims ahead of deadline —a feat that has not always been easy in previous years.
This proactive move ensures compliance with Saudi Arabia’s regulations, which require all participating countries to finalize accommodation, transportation, and service agreements before the closure of the Nusuk Masar contracts portal. The smooth execution of this process has put Nigeria ahead of the curve, significantly reducing the risk of last-minute hitches, delays, and price hikes that often affect late bookings.
The Role of Professor Usman’s Strategic Leadership
The success of this process is deeply tied to the leadership and vision of NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman. Understanding the need for accelerated engagement, he traveled to Saudi Arabia in early February 2025 to personally oversee uploading of contracts on the NUSUK MASAR portal.
Key to this achievement was his consultative approach, which involved engaging major stakeholders such as:
• The Forum of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards
• NAHCON board members
• Representatives from the Presidency
By ensuring collective decision-making in the selection and engagement of service providers, NAHCON has boosted confidence and transparency in the process. Professor Usman personally acknowledged the vital contributions of Malam Idris Almakura, the Forum Chairman; Alhaji Faruku Yaro Aliyu his Deputy, and Malam Abubakar Salihu Secretary of the Forum of States, while Malam Ameen Amshi represents the Presidency.
Furthermore, after securing initial agreements, the approval and permission sought and received by the NAHCON Chairman from Vice President Kashim Shettima to finalize the contract in Makkah reflects the government’s commitment to Hajj operations. The quick response played a vital role in preventing delays.
Professor Usman also commended Vice President Shettima for his support, confidence, and non-interference in the Commission’s operations. According to him, the Vice President’s trust in NAHCON’s leadership enabled quick, decisive action, ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims would not face the challenges of past years.
Support for Private Tour Operators (PTOs)
NAHCON’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity was further demonstrated by its decision to assist Private Tour Operators (PTOs) in securing Mashair camp spaces. In a significant move, the Commission advanced payment for camp bookings on behalf of PTOs, preempting potential disruptions due to delays in transferring funds to their IBAN accounts—a common issue that has hindered visa processing in past years.
As at the time of filing this report, 4,601 spaces have been successfully booked in Tent D and still counting. By stepping in at a crucial moment, NAHCON has ensured that pilgrims traveling under private arrangements will not be left stranded due to technical and financial delays beyond their control.
This decision was made by the Professor Abdullahi Saleh-led board, reflecting a leadership approach that prioritizes the welfare of all pilgrims—whether under government or private arrangements. The move is expected to prevent the closure of essential contracts on the Nusuk Masar portal before PTOs complete their financial processes.
A Unified Vision: Government Support and NAHCON’s Commitment
Beyond operational efficiency, NAHCON’s success so far is also a reflection of the strong support from Nigeria’s leadership. Both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have provided an enabling environment for the Commission to function effectively.
Professor Usman, in acknowledging this, expressed deep gratitude to the President and Vice President for their trust and support. He also lauded NAHCON staff for their unwavering dedication, which has been instrumental in making the 2025 Hajj planning process smoother.
Implications for the 2025 Hajj: A Smooth and Stress-Free Experience
With these critical steps already taken, the outlook for Nigerian pilgrims in 2025 is highly promising. By securing accommodations early, NAHCON has eliminated one of the biggest potential obstacles to a seamless Hajj experience.
This achievement paves the way for a well-coordinated and efficient visa processing phase, set to commence on February 19, 2025. The fact that Mashair accommodations are already booked means that pilgrims can now focus on preparations, medical screenings, and necessary documentation without concerns about last-minute surprises.
Additionally, NAHCON’s ability to navigate financial and logistical challenges on behalf of both state-sponsored and private pilgrims signals a new era of efficiency, fairness, and proactive governance in Nigeria’s Hajj operations.
A landmark achievement in Hajj operations
Under the leadership of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, NAHCON has achieved remarkable milestones that set the tone for a hitch-free 2025 Hajj. From securing over 52,000 Mashair slots well ahead of the deadline to intervening on behalf of Private Tour Operators, the Commission has demonstrated its capacity for proactive and effective leadership.
With continued support from the government and the dedication of NAHCON’s management team, Nigerian pilgrims can look forward to one of the most well-organized Hajj exercises in recent history.
As preparations move to the next phase—visa processing, flight arrangements, and pilgrims’ sensitization—NAHCON has assured all intending pilgrims to remain calm and stay updated through official channels, as every necessary measure has been taken to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage in 2025.
Indeed, NAHCON’s progress so far is a testament to what visionary leadership, strategic planning, and government collaboration can achieve in the service of Nigerian pilgrims.
Shafi’i writes from NAHCON
