August 23, 2025
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has cautioned intending pilgrims and stakeholders to strictly adhere to Saudi Arabia’s fixed deadlines for the 2026 Hajj, stressing that there will be no extensions for visa processing or registration once the official portal closes.
Prince Anofiu Elegushi, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, issued the warning while addressing the importance of early preparations for the holy exercise. He disclosed that the Saudi authorities have made it clear that their calendar dates are final and will not be shifted by “even a minute.”
According to him, the era when countries could appeal for extra weeks to complete documentation and process visas is over. “Gone are the days when you could beg for extra weeks to process visas. For 2026, if the portal closes today, it closes today,” he emphasized.
NAHCON urged state pilgrim welfare boards, tour operators, and intending pilgrims to take the directive seriously by ensuring early registration, timely payment, and proper documentation to avoid being left out of the exercise.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to working closely with Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth Hajj operation while advising Nigerians to comply with all guidelines to secure their participation in the spiritual journey.
