Hundreds of intending pilgrims from Nigerian states risk missing the 2026 Hajj following the closure of Saudi Arabia’s operational portal, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed.
The development comes after Nigeria’s Hajj quota was reduced to 50,000 pilgrims. In response, NAHCON convened a meeting with state officials, cancelled earlier allocations, and adopted a first-come, first-served policy based on confirmed remittances. Many state boards subsequently secured funding and made payments accordingly.
Camp bookings were then allocated based on remittances completed by January 2, 2026, which was the official deadline. A few states, including Kaduna and Niger, later received limited additional allocations through internal adjustments from states that had paid excess.
NAHCON had repeatedly cautioned against late registration, warning that Saudi authorities would strictly enforce deadlines. Although the Commission sought additional slots, approval was only granted after Saudi Arabia’s key operational portals had already closed.
In a statement, NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Sanda Usara appealed for calm among affected pilgrims.
“The Commission appeals to pilgrims who paid late to remain patient. Updates will be communicated as necessary,” she assured.
The situation has raised concerns among state boards and intending pilgrims, many of whom had completed payments but may now be unable to travel due to the portal closure.
Observers note that the incident underscores the importance of timely registration and strict adherence to Saudi Arabia’s operational timelines, as delays could jeopardize participation in the annual pilgrimage.
