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2026 Hajj: NAHCON Confirms Saudi Arabia Will Not Extend Deadlines |
NAHCON warns Nigerian pilgrims and operators to strictly follow the Saudi Arabia 2026 Hajj deadlines as no extensions will be granted for visas or payments.
Saudi Arabia’s Strict Hajj Deadlines
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged all pilgrims, state boards, and tour operators to strictly comply with Saudi Arabia’s 2026 Hajj deadlines. According to NAHCON, the Saudi authorities have made it clear that there will be no extensions for visa processing, payments, or contractual obligations.
During a post-Hajj stakeholders’ meeting chaired by NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, officials emphasized the need for discipline and early compliance with the official Hajj calendar.
NAHCON’s Warning to Hajj Stakeholders
Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, stressed that the era of lobbying for extra weeks is over.
- If the visa portal closes, it will not be reopened.
- All financial obligations must be completed before the deadlines.
- Saudi authorities will not tolerate any delays in payment or documentation.
Similarly, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Policy, Personnel, Management, and Finance, Prince Aliu AbdulRazaq, called on operators to ensure timely payments to avoid sanctions.
Jigawa Pilgrims Receive Refunds
In a positive development, the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board announced refunds totaling over ₦31 million to 930 pilgrims who performed the 2025 Hajj. The refunds were made possible after Saudi Arabia approved a discount on the cost of animal sacrifice.
- Each pilgrim who paid through the Board will receive ₦42,996.
- The refund followed direct negotiations with the Hadaya Company on behalf of Nigerian pilgrims.
- The Board also returned ₦24 million in unutilized operational funds to the Jigawa State treasury.
Presenting the 2025 Hajj report, Amirul Hajj and Emir of Kazaure, Alhaji Najib Hussaini Adamu, praised the transparent process that ensured accountability and financial relief for pilgrims.
Importance of Early Compliance for the 2026 Hajj
As preparations begin, NAHCON has reiterated the following for the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia:
- Visa processing must be completed strictly within official timelines.
- Payments for services such as accommodation, feeding, and transportation should be made promptly.
- Pilgrim welfare boards must prioritize early planning to prevent last-minute crises.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, global Hajj operations are being streamlined, and technology-driven systems now ensure strict enforcement of deadlines.
The 2026 Hajj presents both opportunities and challenges for Nigerian pilgrims. With Saudi Arabia’s firm stance on no deadline extensions, NAHCON’s call for strict compliance is crucial to avoid disruptions.
The Jigawa refund sets an example of transparency and accountability that other state boards can emulate. For pilgrims and operators, the message is clear: plan early, pay early, and comply fully to ensure a smooth Hajj experience.
