The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has introduced a stringent new operational framework for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, aiming to overhaul logistics and ensure compliance. Announced in Abuja on December 5, 2025, the 15-point directive imposes significant penalties for missed flights and mandates tighter data management.
Stricter Travel Protocols and Digital Integration
Following a crucial meeting with State Pilgrims Welfare Boards and approved air carriers, NAHCON, through its Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Fatima Sanda Usama, ordered airlines to begin issuing flight tickets to all pilgrims well before departure. A core innovation is the digital linking of each pilgrim's flight ticket to their Nusuk card and pre-assigned buses in Saudi Arabia. This move is designed to eliminate the perennial issue of inaccurate pre-arrival data sent to Saudi authorities, which has historically disrupted the distribution of essential Nusuk cards and other logistical plans.
NAHCON has mandated that all pre-arrival details must be uploaded to the Nusuk Masar platform at least 72 hours before flight departure. This data includes group numbers, pilgrim names, and specific accommodation assignments.
Key Rules and Direct Consequences for Defaulters
The commission has laid down clear and firm rules, with financial repercussions for non-compliance. Pilgrims who miss their scheduled flights will be treated as no-shows and will bear the full cost of their unused seat. This penalty extends to any defaulting party responsible for the absence.
Furthermore, group changes after the issuance of visas are strictly prohibited. Pilgrims must travel, lodge, and return to Nigeria within the same 45-member group under which their visa was processed. Each group will be led by a designated leader and will stay together in Makkah, Madinah, and Masha'ir.
Medical and Administrative Directives
NAHCON reinforced that Saudi Arabia's medical disqualifications for the Hajj are fully enforceable. Pilgrims found with any of the nine disqualifying conditions—including major organ failures, active cancer treatments, or high-risk pregnancies—must not travel and will bear the full cost of deportation if they attempt the pilgrimage. State boards have been directed to partner only with credible, certified hospitals for issuing medical fitness certificates.
On the administrative front, state boards are compelled to remit Hajj fares promptly to NAHCON to avoid forfeiting their allocated slots. The commission's Special Assistant on General Matters, Dr. Danbaba Haruna, warned that Saudi authorities would refund any overbooked slots directly to NAHCON, leading to automatic forfeiture.
The approved airlines for the 2026 Hajj are Air Peace, Fly Nas, Max Air, and Umza Air. Allocations have been communicated to state boards, though they are subject to technical reviews.
A Call for Cooperation and Cost Review
NAHCON's Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, emphasized the need for seamless cooperation between state boards, airlines, and the commission for a successful operation. This policy shift comes alongside a presidential directive from President Bola Tinubu, who has ordered a review of the 2026 Hajj fare downwards, citing the recent appreciation of the Naira against the US dollar.
The new rules represent a significant tightening of the Hajj process, shifting greater responsibility onto pilgrims and state boards to adhere strictly to timelines and regulations to avoid costly penalties.
