Saudi Arabia has slashed Nigeria’s Hajj allocation from 95,000 to 66,910 slots, effective from 2026.
According to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the reduction followed Nigeria’s failure to fully utilize its previous allocations during the 2024 and 2025 pilgrimages.
A statement signed by NAHCON’s Deputy Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, explained that the new figure reflects the actual capacity reserved for Nigeria on the NUSUK Masar portal. “Although Nigeria was initially allocated 95,000 slots, only 66,910 are now available for the 2026 Hajj due to underutilization in previous years,” she stated.
The decision was revealed during a meeting between NAHCON and state officials to deliberate on Hajj costing and other critical matters.
Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, added that future allocations to states will be adjusted based on their performance and utilization during the 2025 exercise.
In his remarks, NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, urged collaboration among state officials to ensure a smooth Hajj operation in 2026 and emphasized the need for strict adherence to medical screening requirements, which Saudi authorities consider crucial.
NAHCON also disclosed that negotiations were underway to reduce some cost components, including cargo handling charges, to lessen the financial strain on intending pilgrims.
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