Saudi Arabia has strongly warned Nigerian intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj against attempting the sacred pilgrimage without a valid Hajj visa. Authorities said offenders will face a heavy fine of SR20,000 (about N8.15 million) alongside imprisonment. This warning aims to ensure that all pilgrims follow proper procedures and protect the image of Nigeria during the holy exercise.

The caution was issued during a virtual meeting between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The session, chaired by Dr. Rania Adham, reviewed next year's Hajj preparations and stressed the need for early compliance with official deadlines.

Saudi officials highlighted that all deadlines must be strictly observed without extensions. Key dates include November 2025 for the signing of the MoU, January 4, 2026 for camp booking payments and service contracts, February 1, 2026 for uploading of transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar portal, and the 1st of Shawwal as the final deadline for visa issuance.

The Kingdom expressed concerns about repeated delays in Nigeria's past preparations. According to them, late actions could harm the welfare of pilgrims and disrupt the overall planning of the Hajj exercise.

In addition, officials stressed that all Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings must be carried out exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform. This is to ensure transparency, safety, and proper coordination for millions of global pilgrims.

Reacting, NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, assured full cooperation with Saudi Arabia. He pledged that Nigeria would strictly adhere to all requirements to secure a smooth, safe, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for its citizens in 2026.
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