NAHCON in prayer for Nigeria
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says planning for the 2026 hajj has begun.
Speaking at the post-Arafat stakeholders’ meeting in Makkah, Aliyu Abdulrasaq, NAHCON’s commissioner of policy, personnel and finance, said compliance with Saudi Arabia’s schedule is non-negotiable.
The commissioner also implored stakeholders to meet all deadlines and avoid a repeat of past logistical setbacks.
“I want to make it known to the public that preparation for Hajj 2026 has begun,” he said.
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“The Saudi Authority has warned that we must keep to the timeline of all the activities.
“The idea of not getting a visa, not preparing, not getting accommodation, and all other logistics will not be entertained in the 2026 Hajj Operation.”
Abdulrasaq asked stakeholders to resolve critical concerns ahead of departure, especially those tied to Business Travel Account (BTA), cash flow, and card transactions.
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“It is advisable that we look at the issue of accommodation properly and carefully; we can renegotiate before going back to Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the commission aims to finalise all accommodation deals before officials leave the Kingdom.
On the 2025 hajj, Abdullahi Usman, NAHCON chair, commended stakeholders for their effort, saying the exercise recorded major successes due to collaboration and commitment.
“We thank you all for being part of the 2025 hajj operation,” he said.
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“We recorded so many successes this year, and these were possible because of your teamwork, hard work and dedication.
“I thank you for your tireless work to ensure the success of this year’s hajj.
“I have no words to express my deep appreciation and gratitude for your efforts in this regard, I only pray Almighty Allah to reward you abundantly.”
Usman announced that the return airlift of pilgrims would commence on June 13 and is expected to be completed within three weeks.
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