Hajj 2027: NAHCON defends allocation of 15,000 slots to private tour operators

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has cautioned private Hajj tour operators against spreading misinformation regarding the allocation of slots for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. In response to allegations of 5,000 Hajj slots being diverted, NAHCON clarified that there is no evidence to support these claims, stating that they are unfounded and do not violate Saudi Arabian Hajj regulations or NAHCON's guidelines.

According to NAHCON, Nigeria's approved Hajj slots for 2027 amount to 50,000, with 35,000 allocated to states and the Federal Capital Territory, and 15,000 for licensed private tour operators operating under seven approved lead companies. The commission urges operators with concerns to rely on facts, regulations, and established dispute-resolution mechanisms instead of anonymous allegations.

NAHCON attributes the controversy surrounding the slots to a coordinated and diversionary campaign, targeting operators who have failed to comply with strict regulatory requirements, timelines, and digital upload obligations established by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The commission emphasized that the reported allegations lack credibility due to the anonymity of the accusers, making it impossible to assess their credibility, standing, or motives.

NAHCON further stated that the controversy is largely commercial in nature, urging stakeholders to focus on facts rather than baseless allegations. It is crucial for intending pilgrims to ensure their biometric and registration details have been uploaded to the Nusuk platform before the September 26, 2026 deadline, as an extension of the deadline is not possible.

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in sanctions, including suspension, licence revocation, and blacklisting.