The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia officially signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage, laying the groundwork for improved pilgrimage operations.
The agreement was signed on Tuesday, 10th November 2026, in Jeddah at the prestigious Super Dome by NAHCON Chairman/CEO, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, on behalf of Nigeria, while the Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat, signed on behalf of Saudi Arabia
The MoU establishes a framework for coordinating Nigeria’s participation in the pilgrimage, including country quota allocation, compliance with Saudi Hajj regulations, adherence to operational deadlines and cooperation on essential services such as accommodation, transportation and healthcare. It also provides a basis for closer engagement between both countries to address logistical challenges, monitor service standards and protect pilgrims’ welfare.
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Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yusuf commended the Saudi Government and the Minister of Hajj and Umrah for continued investment in pilgrims' infrastructure, significant improvements in pilgrimage arrangements, and sustained constructive engagement with Nigeria. He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to align with these achievements through stronger institutional collaboration and improved services for Nigerian pilgrims.
In his remarks, Dr. Mashat disclosed that the Kingdom recorded a 93 per cent satisfaction rate among pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj and applauded Nigeria for contributing to this achievement. Regarding arrangements for the 2027 Hajj, the Minister commended Nigeria for meeting all established timelines and encouraged Nahcon to sustain the milestone.
The ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo; members of the National Assembly, led by Hon. Jafar Mohammed, Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage; and other senior officials.
To give effect to the agreement, NAHCON will coordinate with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to align operational arrangements, strengthen service monitoring and address potential challenges before the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage commences.
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