ABUJA — Nigeria is reviewing its Hajj operations ahead of a proposed shift by Saudi authorities to a private sector-driven model, as the Federal Government moves to safeguard the interests of Nigerian pilgrims.
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, disclosed this during a meeting with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, in Abuja, according to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
Yusuf said Saudi Arabia is proposing a transition to a predominantly private tour operator system for Hajj services, a move that could significantly reshape Nigeria’s pilgrimage framework.
While acknowledging potential benefits, he stressed the need for caution. “The implementation must be gradual and carefully managed, taking into account Nigeria’s demographic realities and operational capacity,” he said.
He added that NAHCON is already engaging Saudi authorities to ensure Nigeria’s interests are protected as the reforms evolve.
The NAHCON chairman also confirmed that preparations for the 2027 Hajj are underway, with Nigeria allocated about 50,000 pilgrimage slots.
He noted that the 2026 Hajj recorded improved performance due to stricter oversight of service providers and enhanced accountability.
Responding, Enikanolaiye reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting Hajj operations through stronger diplomatic and consular engagement with Saudi Arabia.
“Sustained diplomatic engagement… remains essential for the successful management of Hajj,” he said.
Both sides also discussed broader reforms to improve Hajj administration, including stricter medical screening, better awareness of Saudi regulations and enhanced coordination among relevant agencies.
They agreed that continuous dialogue with Saudi authorities would be key to adapting to ongoing changes in Hajj management, particularly in areas such as accommodation and logistics.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to ensuring efficient Hajj operations and improved welfare for Nigerian pilgrims amid evolving global and policy dynamics.
