By Olugbenga Salami
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has set N4 million as the minimum initial deposit for the 1448AH/2027 Hajj and fixed September 26, 2026 as deadline for collection.
NAHCON disclosed this in a circular dated June 15, 2026 titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448AH/2027 Hajj Season” and directed all State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions and licensed private tour operators to immediately commence preparations in line with guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
According to the commission, the N4 million deposit is provisional, adding that the final Hajj fare would be determined after consultations with stakeholders and conclusion of negotiations with service providers in Saudi Arabia.
It explained that the early deadline is to enable timely planning and contractual arrangements for accommodation, transportation, and feeding, healthcare and other logistics for the 2027 Hajj.
In response to the directive, NAHCON’s Mahmud Babangida Beli, confirmed in a weekend statement that several State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards have already begun collecting deposits from intending pilgrims.
The commission advised intending pilgrims to make payments only through their respective state boards, agencies, commissions or licensed private tour operators, and ensure they collect official receipts for every payment as proof of transaction.
It noted that early registration would further support the smooth coordination of the 2027 Hajj exercise.
NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with State boards, licensed tour operators and other stakeholders to deliver a seamless and successful pilgrimage, calling on states that are yet to begin the exercise to expedite preparations in line with the approved timetable.
