The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says over 20,000 Nigerian pilgrims have so far arrived in Makkah for the 2026 Hajj exercise, as preparations intensify for the commencement of the major Hajj rites.
This formed part of discussions at a special meeting organised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on May 15, 2026, to review preparations for Masha’er operations.
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Chairman of Mashariq Dhahabiyya, Sheikh Mohammad Ameen Andarqiri, noted improvements in accommodation, feeding, transportation, medical services and general welfare support for pilgrims.
NAHCON said pilgrims from Nasarawa, Kogi, Ogun, Ondo, Benue, Plateau, the FCT, Borno, Taraba, Katsina, Niger, Sokoto and Bauchi States had been successfully transported and accommodated in Makkah.
The Commission, however, acknowledged delays in room allocation in some locations, adding that the issues were promptly resolved through collaboration between NAHCON officials, state coordinators and Saudi authorities.
The report also indicated significant progress in the distribution of Nusuk cards, with over 19,000 cards already issued to Nigerian pilgrims.
NAHCON further disclosed that its medical teams in Madinah and Makkah had attended to more than 500 medical cases since the commencement of operations.
The Commission also highlighted the deployment of digital innovations, including GPS mapping of pilgrims’ accommodation and real-time monitoring systems aimed at improving service delivery during the Hajj.
Field support officials were also said to have assisted several pilgrims who lost their way in Makkah, while pilgrims were advised to always carry their Nusuk cards for identification and access to services.
Officials at the review meeting commended the collaboration among operational committees, Saudi authorities and security agencies in ensuring smooth Hajj operations.
NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to efficient service delivery and improved welfare for Nigerian pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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