Abuja:The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has granted Nigeria an additional 10,000 Hajj slots for the 2027 pilgrimage, bringing the country’s total allocation to 60,000 slots.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) announced this development, highlighting the increase from the previous 50,000 slots. The expansion follows high-level diplomatic efforts between Nigeria’s Federal Government and Saudi authorities.
The additional slots will be distributed among State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, and Commissions, with 7,500 assigned to these bodies and the remaining 2,500 slots allocated to seven lead tour operator companies.
Amb. Isma’il Yusuf, Chairman and CEO of NAHCON, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government and Saudi officials, describing the gesture as a significant act of goodwill. He emphasized the importance of this development in reinforcing the strong relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, particularly in facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage.
Yusuf assured that the new slots would be managed transparently and in accordance with Nigerian and Saudi regulations. He also reaffirmed NAHCON’s dedication to making Hajj accessible and affordable while maintaining high standards of service and regulatory compliance. The commission plans to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure the welfare and interests of Nigerian pilgrims are protected.