The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued an urgent reminder that intending pilgrims have only seven days remaining to complete registration and upload their data for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. The commission warned that missing the September 26, 2026 deadline could result in the loss of allocated Hajj slots entirely.
NAHCON released the alert on Saturday, September 19, via its official X account, directing both pilgrims and relevant stakeholders to act without delay. The commission emphasized that the countdown to the deadline has officially begun, urging all parties to register early and upload pilgrim data to avoid last-minute complications.
NAHCON Warns of Slot Forfeiture for Late Registration
In its statement, NAHCON cautioned that any pilgrim whose data is not uploaded before the September 26 deadline risks forfeiting their allocated slot. The commission tied this cut-off date to Saudi Arabia's digital processing requirements, which are part of the broader timeline governing preparations for the annual pilgrimage.
“The countdown to the 26th September 2026 deadline for 2027 Hajj registration and pilgrim data upload has begun. Register early. Upload pilgrim data. Avoid the last-minute rush,” NAHCON said in its public announcement.
Full Payment for Allocated Slots Due by December 2
Beyond registration and data upload, NAHCON confirmed that full payment for allocated slots is due by December 2, 2026. The commission directed intending pilgrims to make all payments strictly through officially approved channels, which include state pilgrims' welfare agencies, designated Hajj savings banks, and duly licensed tour operators.
NAHCON also urged pilgrims to sort out their documentation as early as possible to avoid complications as preparations continue to gather pace. The commission stressed the importance of adhering to these payment guidelines to ensure a smooth process for all participants.
Nigeria's 2027 Hajj Quota Remains at 50,000
The urgency of the reminder comes against the backdrop of a setback for Nigerian pilgrims. Two days before Saturday's announcement, Saudi Arabia turned down Nigeria's formal request for an increase in its 2027 Hajj allocation. The country's approved quota remains at 50,000 pilgrims for next year's pilgrimage, meaning every registered slot carries significant weight and any forfeiture due to missed deadlines will be difficult to recover.
Previously, Legit.ng reported that more than 1.5 million Muslim pilgrims arrived in Saudi Arabia as this year’s Hajj pilgrimage formally began in the holy city of Mecca amid heightened regional tensions in the Middle East. Pilgrims dressed in white garments streamed into Mina on Monday, May 25, after completing the Tawaf ritual at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.
With the quota fixed at 50,000 and the registration window closing on September 26, 2026, Nigerian pilgrims must complete their registration and data upload promptly to secure their places. Full payment must follow by December 2, 2026, through approved channels only, to avoid losing their slots.
