Jeddah:Abuja The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. The agreement, disclosed by NAHCON’s Head of Information and Publications, Malam Shafii Mohammed, establishes a framework for improved pilgrimage operations, coordination, and protection of Nigerian pilgrims’ welfare.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the agreement was signed at the Super Dome in Jeddah by NAHCON Chairman, Amb. Ismail Yusuf, and Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat. Yusuf represented Nigeria, while Mashat signed on behalf of Saudi Arabia.
The MoU addresses Nigeria’s pilgrimage quota and compliance with Saudi regulations, covering operational deadlines and essential services like accommodation, transportation, and healthcare. It seeks to enhance cooperation in addressing logistical challenges, monitoring service standards, and safeguarding pilgrims’ welfare.
Yusuf praised the Saudi Government and the Minister of Hajj and Umrah for their investment in pilgrimage infrastructure and acknowledged the improvements in Hajj arrangements. He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to stronger institutional collaboration and improved services for Nigerian pilgrims.
Mashat highlighted a 93 percent pilgrim satisfaction rate achieved during the 2026 Hajj and commended Nigeria’s contributions to this achievement. He urged NAHCON to maintain its performance in preparation for the 2027 pilgrimage.
The signing ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Amb. Yakubu Gambo, and members of the National Assembly, including the Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage, Jafar Mohammed. NAHCON plans to collaborate with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators, and relevant Saudi institutions to implement the agreement, focusing on aligning operational arrangements and strengthening service monitoring.