
NAHCON tells states to refund unregistered 2026 Hajj pilgrims
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has directed state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to refund intending pilgrims who could not be registered for the 2026 Hajj. Ismail Yusuf, the newly appointed NAHCON Chairman, clarified that Nigeria’s reduced Hajj quota is part of a global adjustment and not targeted at the country. The commission emphasized the need for transparency and professionalism, warning states to urgently reconcile their data and avoid operational issues. NAHCON also announced a reduction in the Yellow Card fee for the 2026 pilgrimage.
What we know
- NAHCON ordered state boards to refund intending pilgrims unable to register for the 2026 Hajj.
- Ismail Yusuf explained the quota reduction is due to global logistical adjustments, not a decision against Nigeria.
- States were told to urgently reconcile data and withdraw excess entries to prevent bottlenecks.
- The Yellow Card fee for the 2026 Hajj has been reduced from ₦5,000 to ₦2,000.
- NAHCON warned against last-minute changes to flight manifests and stressed stricter health and documentation requirements.