2026 Hajj: Nigerian Pilgrims Without Visa Risk Imprisonment and N8.158m Fine

The authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have warned Nigerian intending pilgrims for the upcoming 2026 Hajj pilgrimage that anyone found performing Hajj rituals without a valid visa will face severe penalties, including a fine of SR20,000 (approximately ₦8.158 million) and imprisonment.

This warning was issued during a virtual meeting on Monday between the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the leadership of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), during which both parties discussed preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage.

According to a statement from NAHCON’s information unit made available to journalists yesterday, the Saudi representatives, led by Ustaz Abdallah Ash Shihry, acting director-general and special assistant to the deputy minister in the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, underscored the significance of adhering to critical deadlines.

These include signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in November, with 4th January marking the final day for camp booking payments and confirmation of service contract packages. Additionally, 1st February has been established as the deadline for uploading transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar Portal, while 1st of Shawwal remains strictly the deadline for visa issuance.

The Saudi authorities also highlighted that all payments for Hadaya (sacrificial rites) and accommodation bookings must be made exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform.

In response, the NAHCON delegation, led by its chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, assured the Saudi authorities of the commission’s commitment to collaborate closely with them to ensure the welfare and interests of Nigerian pilgrims.

Usman revealed that NAHCON would work diligently with relevant partners to guarantee compliance with all deadlines and requirements, aiming to facilitate a smooth, well-coordinated, and successful 2026 Hajj operation.

NAHCON had previously warned stakeholders at the 2025 post-Hajj meeting with private tour operators in Abuja last week that the deadlines set by the Saudi Arabian authorities for the upcoming Hajj operations would not be extended and urged all parties to adhere strictly to these timelines.