•NAHCON seeks extension

Some Nigerians who have paid for this year’s hajj may miss out due to non-capturing of their data.

This is as the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) informed the general public and all intending pilgrims that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, has officially closed the data-capturing window for the 2026 Hajj season.

Following this development, NAHCON, in a statement by Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Fatima Sanda Usara, said it has formally appealed to the Saudi authorities for an extension to enable all concerned Hajj organs in Nigeria to complete the capture of the remaining Nigerian pilgrims who are yet to be uploaded on the Nusuk Masar platform.

The Commission said it remains hopeful that the request will receive favourable consideration and assured the public that timely updates will be provided as soon as further communication is received.

NAHCON, however, advised all intending pilgrims to refrain from paying Hajj fares to any individual, group, or agency, as payment for the 2026 Hajj has been officially closed.

Nigerian, the commission said, should follow NAHCON’s verified channels for any update.

“The Hajj Commission of Nigeria appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders while it works closely with the Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth Hajj experience for its pilgrims,” Usara said. (The Nation)

Update news