Registration for 2027 Hajj closes tomorrow

•NAHCON insists no extension of deadline

Registration by Nigerians intending to perform the 2027 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will end tomorrow, the date set aside for the upload of data of all registered intending pilgrims on the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Nusuk Masar platform.

Despite efforts made by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to make a case for an upward review of the 50,000 slots allocated to Nigeria by the Saudi authorities following growing demands for more slots by state pilgrims boards and private tour operators, Saudi Arabia declined the request, insisting on maintaining the allocation earlier given to the country.

The Saudis’ refusal is based on their strict regulatory requirements, timelines already set, which could not be changed in favour of Nigeria.

Nigeria’s allocation for the 2027 Hajj exercise was distributed between state pilgrims welfare boards and private tour operators, with 35,000 slots for government pilgrims and 15,000 slots for licenced tour operators.

As part of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah guidelines and deadlines set for the next year’s edition of the annual pilgrimage, September 26, was designated as the final date for upload of prospective pilgrims data on the Nusuk Masar platform.

Consequently, NAHCON has consistently said there will be no extension of the deadline, urging state pilgrims’ welfare boards, agencies and licensed tour operators to judicious and transparent make use of their approved allocations, as well as ensure strict compliance with all timelines established by the Commission and the Saudi Nusuk platform.

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NAHCON Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, while noting the deep desire of many Nigerian Muslims to perform Hajj, warned that no extensions would be granted under any circumstance.

“Kindly note that the deadline for uploading prospective pilgrims’ data remains September 26, 2026. We urge all partners, state pilgrim boards, tour operators and representatives to ensure that all required information is submitted before this date, as no extensions will be granted,” he said.

The NAHCON CEO further appealed for understanding and cooperation from all stakeholders, emphasising that adherence to the Saudi-approved quota system remains a global requirement affecting all participating countries and is essential to ensuring a smooth and successful pilgrimage operation.

Meanwhile, the commission has advised intending pilgrims, who may not secure a slot for the 2027 Hajj, not to lose hope, as it has commenced preparations for the 2028 Hajj with the opening of registration portal for the 2028 pilgrimage and applications are now being accepted.

“Individuals who were unable to secure a slot for the upcoming Hajj are encouraged to register for the 2028 Hajj. The Commission has officially opened the registration portal for this period, and applications are now being accepted,” NAHCON chairman said.