Nigeria has secured an additional 10,000 slots for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage following approval from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, raising the country’s total allocation from 50,000 to 60,000 pilgrims.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which said the increased quota resulted from sustained diplomatic engagement and cooperation between Nigerian and Saudi authorities.
According to the Commission, the additional slots have been distributed to accommodate both public and private sector participants in the annual pilgrimage exercise.
NAHCON stated that 7,500 of the newly approved slots will be allocated to State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, and Commissions across the country, while the remaining 2,500 slots will be assigned to seven lead tour operators.
Chairman of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the Saudi authorities for their continued support and collaboration in facilitating Hajj operations for Nigerian pilgrims.
He noted that the increased allocation would provide more opportunities for Nigerians seeking to perform the Muslim pilgrimage and further strengthen bilateral relations between both countries in the area of religious services.
The Commission assured stakeholders that the additional slots would be administered transparently and in strict compliance with both Nigerian and Saudi Arabian regulations governing Hajj operations.
NAHCON also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accessible Hajj services, improved service delivery, and the overall welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
The Commission emphasized that efforts would continue to enhance the quality of Hajj arrangements and ensure that pilgrims receive efficient support throughout the pilgrimage process.
The approval of the additional slots is expected to ease pressure on the growing number of Nigerians seeking to participate in the annual pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
