Taiwo Popoola
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has cautioned intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj against attempting to perform the sacred rites without valid visas, warning that violators will face stiff penalties, including a fine of ₦8.2 million and imprisonment.
The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to review preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage.
According to a statement from NAHCON’s information unit, Ustaz Abdallah Ash Shihry, acting director-general and special assistant to the deputy minister in the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, stressed the need for strict compliance with all deadlines governing the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Key dates include November for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), January 4 as the final day for camp booking payments and confirmation of service contract packages, and February 1 as the deadline for uploading transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar Portal.
Saudi authorities also emphasised that May 1 (1st Shawwal) will remain the deadline for visa issuance.
Responding on behalf of Nigeria, NAHCON chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, assured Saudi authorities of Nigeria’s commitment to meeting the deadlines and requirements. He pledged that the commission would work closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims in 2026.
