The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that 2,717 Nigerian pilgrims were unable to participate in the 2025 Hajj due to delayed payments.
According to a statement issued by Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia declined to extend the visa registration deadline. Despite this, NAHCON successfully secured 13,217 visas for private tour operators out of the 14,158 registered pilgrims, highlighting robust participation from the private sector.
The commission expressed sympathy for those affected and urged future pilgrims to plan and make payments well before set deadlines to avoid disappointment. “Hajj is a divine calling, and while missing it is painful, it is essential to prepare early,” the statement read.
NAHCON also disclosed that it had extended various registration deadlines including for fare payments and visa processing on four separate occasions. Despite repeated warnings that visa issuance would cease by April 19, 2025, some pilgrims still made late payments.
In response to public appeals, NAHCON requested and received a one-month visa extension from Saudi authorities, which allowed some state pilgrim boards and tour operators to complete outstanding arrangements. However, all visa processing was officially closed as of May 19, 2025.
The statement further warned against unauthorized arrangements for premium Tent A+ services. NAHCON clarified that only the Rawaf Mina Company is recognized for providing Tent A+ accommodations during the 2025 Hajj.
Tour operators were strongly cautioned not to engage third-party providers outside the approved channels, as NAHCON would not be responsible for any adverse consequences arising from such dealings.
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