The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the 2027 Hajj.
The agreement establishes a framework to improve pilgrimage operations, strengthen logistics and ensure the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
It was signed on Tuesday in Jeddah by the NAHCON Chairman, Ismail Yusuf, on behalf of Nigeria, while the Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Abdulfattah Mashat, signed for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
NAHCON, in a statement issued by its Head of Information and Publications, Shafii Mohammed, and made available to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, said the agreement outlines arrangements for Nigeria’s Hajj quota, compliance with Saudi regulations and adherence to operational deadlines.
The commission added that the MoU provides for cooperation in key areas, including accommodation, transportation and healthcare, as well as stronger collaboration between both countries to tackle logistical challenges, monitor service delivery and safeguard the welfare of pilgrims.
It stated, “The MoU establishes a framework for coordinating Nigeria’s participation in the pilgrimage, including country quota allocation, compliance with Saudi Hajj regulations, adherence to operational deadlines and cooperation on essential services such as accommodation, transportation and healthcare.
“It also provides a basis for closer engagement between both countries to address logistical challenges, monitor service standards and protect pilgrims’ welfare.
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“Speaking at the event, Ambassador Yusuf commended the Saudi Government and the Minister of Hajj and Umrah for continuous investment in pilgrims’ infrastructure, the significant improvements in pilgrimage arrangements and sustained constructive engagement with Nigeria.
“He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to align with these achievements through stronger institutional collaboration and better services for Nigerian pilgrims.”
According to the statement, Mashat said Saudi Arabia achieved a 93 per cent satisfaction rate among pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj, and commended Nigeria for its contribution to the feat.
The statement continued, “On arrangements for the 2027 Hajj, the Minister commended Nigeria for meeting all established timelines while encouraging NAHCON to sustain the milestone.
“The ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo, and members of the National Assembly led by Hon. Jafar Mohammed, Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage, alongside other senior officials.
“To give effect to the agreement, NAHCON will coordinate with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to align operational arrangements, strengthen service monitoring and address potential challenges before the commencement of the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage.”
Saudi Arabia approved an additional 10,000 slots for Nigeria on October 1, raising the country’s 2027 Hajj quota from 50,000 to 60,000 pilgrims.
