⬆️L-R: NAHCON Chairman/CEO Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf and Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat at the signing of the MoU.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage, laying the groundwork for smoother and better-coordinated operations.
The agreement was signed at the Super Dome in Jeddah by NAHCON Chairman/CEO Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf on behalf of Nigeria and Saudi Vice Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Abdulfattah bin Sulaiman Mashat on behalf of the Kingdom, according to a press statement by Shafii Sani Mohammed,Head, Information and Publications, NAHCON.
The MoU sets out a framework for Nigeria’s participation, covering quota allocation, compliance with Saudi regulations, adherence to operational deadlines, and cooperation on key services including accommodation, transportation and healthcare. It also creates a platform for closer engagement to tackle logistical challenges, monitor service standards and safeguard pilgrims’ welfare.
Ambassador Yusuf praised the Saudi government and the Minister of Hajj and Umrah for continued investment in pilgrim infrastructure, the notable improvements in arrangements and the sustained constructive engagement with Nigeria. He reaffirmed NAHCON’s commitment to match these advances through stronger institutional collaboration and improved services for Nigerian pilgrims.
Dr. Mashat revealed that the Kingdom achieved a 93 per cent pilgrim satisfaction rate during the 2026 Hajj and credited Nigeria for its contribution. He commended NAHCON for meeting all established timelines for the 2027 pilgrimage and urged the commission to maintain the standard.
The ceremony was attended by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ambassador Yakubu Gambo, and a National Assembly delegation led by Hon. Jafar Mohammed, Chairman of the House Committee on Hajj Pilgrimage, along with other senior officials.
NAHCON will now work with State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, licensed tour operators and relevant Saudi institutions to align operational plans, strengthen service monitoring and address potential challenges ahead of the 2027 Hajj.
