Saudi Arabia has reduced Nigeria’s Hajj quota for 2026 and introduced stricter health requirements for intending pilgrims, according to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
In a statement by Fatima Usara, NAHCON’s Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, the decision followed a meeting between the Commission and State Pilgrims Welfare Boards in Abuja, which also discussed Hajj cost harmonisation, payment deadlines, and tour operator policies.
NAHCON Chairman, Abdullahi Usman, urged state executives to collaborate for a smooth operation and emphasised the need for rigorous medical screening, as Saudi authorities have tightened health clearance rules.
Nigeria’s Mashair allocation on Saudi Arabia’s NUSUK Masar portal has been cut to 66,910 slots from 95,000, with 51,513 for state pilgrims and 15,397 for tour operators. NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Anofiu Elegushi, said the reduction was due to Nigeria’s underutilisation of its 2025 quota.
The Commission is negotiating with service providers to reduce costs, particularly cargo handling fees, and urged that all 2026 Hajj payments be completed by 21 December 2025.
NAHCON also announced a new luggage policy allowing two 23kg checked-in bags and one hand luggage per pilgrim.
Saudi Arabia’s updated medical guidelines exclude individuals with severe illnesses such as organ failure, psychiatric disorders, dementia, pregnancy, active cancer, or communicable diseases. Medical screenings must be certified by designated hospitals and state chief medical directors, with visas now linked to verified certificates.
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