The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has unveiled the official schedule for the 2026 Hajj operations, emphasizing the importance of timely registration to avoid last-minute hurdles for intending pilgrims.
The announcement, made during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, aims to ensure a smooth and organized pilgrimage for the over 95,000 Nigerian slots allocated under the kingdom of Saudi Arabia's quota.
NAHCON's Executive Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi, disclosed the key dates during the event, highlighting that registration for the 2026 Hajj will commence on September 15, 2025, and close on December 31, 2025.
"We urge all prospective pilgrims to register early to secure their spots and benefit from the commission's preparatory services," Arabi stated.
He warned that late registrations could lead to complications, including potential forfeiture of slots due to the fixed quota system.
The 2026 Hajj schedule includes several critical milestones: Initial medical screenings for pilgrims will run from October 1 to November 30, 2025, while orientation and training programs are slated for January to March 2026.
Departure from Nigeria is tentatively set between April 15 and May 1, 2026, with arrival in Saudi Arabia expected shortly thereafter.
The climax of the pilgrimage, including the Day of Arafat, is projected for June 10, 2026, followed by return flights commencing from June 20, 2026, and concluding by July 5, 2026.
Arabi attributed the early release of the schedule to ongoing collaborations with Saudi authorities and the need to address logistical challenges faced in previous years, such as flight delays and accommodation shortages.
He also announced that NAHCON has secured bilateral agreements for airlifting services with approved airlines, promising cost-effective and efficient transportation.
The commission plans to introduce digital platforms for real-time tracking of pilgrim movements and health monitoring to enhance safety.
The announcement comes amid preparations to improve upon the 2025 Hajj, which saw some disruptions due to global supply chain issues and heightened health protocols.
NAHCON has already begun stakeholder engagements with state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Islamic organizations, and financial institutions to facilitate payments.
Pilgrims are required to pay an initial deposit of N2.5 million by October 31, 2025, with the balance due by February 28, 2026.
The total estimated cost per pilgrim is yet to be finalized but is expected to hover around N4.5 million, factoring in visa fees, accommodation, and feeding.Arabi stressed the commission's commitment to transparency and accountability, urging pilgrims to deal only with authorized agents to avoid scams.
"Timely registration not only guarantees your participation but also allows us to provide better services, including pre-departure vaccinations and cultural orientation," he added.
The Executive Chairman also called on state governments to expedite the selection of their quotas to prevent bottlenecks.
Nigerian Muslim leaders and intending pilgrims have welcomed the schedule, viewing it as a proactive step toward a hitch-free Hajj.
The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, praised NAHCON's efforts in a statement, encouraging Muslims across the country to seize the opportunity.
However, some stakeholders have raised concerns over the rising costs amid Nigeria's economic challenges, calling for subsidies or installment payment options.
As the registration window opens next month, NAHCON's offices nationwide are gearing up to handle applications, with hotlines and online portals set to go live soon.
The commission reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for corruption, promising strict enforcement of guidelines to ensure every registered pilgrim fulfills their spiritual obligation without undue stress.
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