By Olugbenga Salami
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has raised the alarm over fraudsters claiming they can secure Hajj visas for 2026.
In a notice issued Wednesday, NAHCON said Saudi Arabia has already closed visa issuance for the next Hajj.
The commission confirmed it secured visas for all eligible pilgrims registered before the March 20, 2026, deadline, corresponding to 1st Shawwal 1447 AH.
It stressed that tourist, Umrah or work visas are invalid for Hajj, declaring that only a designated Hajj permit obtained through official channels grants access to the pilgrimage.
“There are no alternative or back‑door visa options for 2026,” the commission warned.
“It has come to the attention of the commission that certain unscrupulous individuals, operating through fraudulent travel agencies and fake social media accounts, are falsely claiming to facilitate the procurement of Hajj visas despite the official closure of issuance.
“The commission successfully secured visas for all eligible intending pilgrims registered for the 2026 Hajj before the deadline,” the statement read.
NAHCON informed that Saudi authorities have imposed stiff penalties, including up to six months’ imprisonment and a fine of SR 20,000, roughly N8.15 million
on anyone caught performing Hajj without a valid permit.
It added that violators also face deportation and a 10‑year ban from re‑entering the Kingdom.
The commission said unscrupulous individuals and fake travel agencies are using social media to push fraudulent offers.
“All Hajj registrations are conducted exclusively through the Nusuk platform,” NAHCON stated.
It, therefore, urged Nigerians to deal only with the commission or state Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, SMPWBs, warning them agaInst payment to anyone promising “guaranteed Hajj visas” outside official routes.
