2027 Hajj: NAHCON warns against fraudulent ‘special slot’ scams

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has cautioned intending pilgrims and tour operators against engaging with individuals who promise "guaranteed special slots" for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. These scammers have been reaching out to tour operators and would-be pilgrims, demanding payments in exchange for these nonexistent guarantees.

NAHCON described such requests as fraudulent and stressed that no individual, agent or tour operator has been authorized to ask for money to secure Hajj slots. The commission emphasized that Hajj slot allocations are determined through a strict process, in accordance with their licensing guidelines for tour operators, already made public.

NAHCON warned that anyone contacting tour operators or intending pilgrims and demanding money in exchange for promised special slots is acting fraudulently and illegally. They urged pilgrims to pay only through officially designated channels such as state pilgrims' welfare agencies, designated Hajj savings banks, and licensed tour operators.

Intending pilgrims were also advised to report any unsolicited calls, messages, or demands for additional payments related to Hajj slot allocation. Failure to meet the deadlines for submitting pilgrims' data by September 26, 2026, and making full payment by December 2, 2026, would result in the loss of the allocated slot, regardless of the claims made by unauthorized individuals.

The commission remains committed to ensuring a transparent, fair, and orderly 2027 Hajj. They advised the public to rely solely on the official communications from the commission and remain vigilant to avoid falling prey to those seeking to exploit the preparations for financial gain.