The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the 2027 Hajj, outlining arrangements to improve pilgrimage operations and services for Nigerian pilgrims.
The agreement was signed at the Super Dome in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, signing on behalf of Nigeria, while the Kingdom was represented by its Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat.
The agreement establishes a framework for Nigeria’s participation in the 2027 pilgrimage, covering Hajj quota allocation, compliance with Saudi regulations, operational deadlines and essential services such as accommodation, transportation and healthcare.
Speaking at the ceremony, Yusuf commended the Saudi Government and its Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for continued investment in pilgrimage infrastructure, improvements in Hajj arrangements and sustained cooperation with Nigeria.
He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to strengthening the partnership and improving the quality of services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.
In his remarks, Mashat disclosed that Saudi Arabia recorded a 93 per cent pilgrim satisfaction rate during the 2026 Hajj, acknowledging Nigeria’s contribution to the achievement.
He also praised Nigeria for meeting the established timelines for the 2027 pilgrimage and urged NAHCON to maintain the standard.
The ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo, and members of the National Assembly led by the Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage, Jafar Mohammed, alongside other senior officials.
Following the signing, NAHCON said it would work with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed Hajj tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to harmonise operational plans, strengthen service monitoring and address possible challenges ahead of the pilgrimage.
The commission said the collaboration was aimed at ensuring better coordination and improved welfare for Nigerian pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.
