The commission expressed regret over the situation, despite its efforts to get the Saudi authorities to consider re-opening the visa portal “even for an hour.”

No fewer than 2717 intending pilgrims from Nigeria have been denied visas by the Saudi Arabian government. 

This was disclosed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in a statement signed by the NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Usara, on Monday.

The commission expressed regret over the situation, despite its efforts to get the Saudi authorities to consider re-opening the visa portal “even for an hour.”

“Despite concerted efforts to get the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to consider the re-opening of the visa portal, even for an hour, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is saddened that this was not achieved. Hence, the visa suspension affected 2,717 pilgrims who had late registration from both sides. 

“In the light of the above, NAHCON wishes to console those affected by the visa closure to have faith, knowing that Hajj is an answer to Allah’s call. However, it is also advised that all intending pilgrims should always plan ahead for their Hajj ahead of deadlines to avoid disappointments,” the statement partly read.

“From the beginning of Hajj registration to date, NAHCON facilitated the extension of deadlines four times, beginning with Hajj fare remittance to visa issuance. Yet, despite several warnings signalling the end of visa issuance by April 19, 2025, with its attendant consequences, some intending pilgrims came late with their Hajj payments.

“Out of consideration following numerous requests for the Commission to continue accepting Hajj fares, NAHCON formally requested an extension of visa processing, which was graciously approved. However, further access to visa issuance was blocked since May 19, 2025,” the Commission explained.

According to the statement, the one-month extension from April 19 provided relief for State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and Tour Operators still concluding arrangements for their clients.

NAHCON also revealed that at the time of visa blockage, 13,217 visas were granted to Tour Operator Companies, out of 14,158 registered pilgrims, indicating strong participation from the private Hajj sector, stating that it had continued to accommodate more pilgrims from licensed operators “within its legal means.”

“By the time of visa blockage, 13,217 visas were granted to Tour Operator Companies out of 14,158 registered pilgrims, indicating strong participation from the private Hajj sector. Notwithstanding, NAHCON went further within its legal means to accommodate more pilgrims from licensed operators, further boosting the capacity of the operators." 

“NAHCON emphasises that it recognises only Rawaf Mina Company as the sole authorised provider for Tent A+ services during the 2025 Hajj. Therefore, NAHCON will not be held responsible for the consequences of any arrangements made outside of this recognised channel,” the statement warned.

Tour operators were urged not to engage “in dealings that could compromise the welfare of their pilgrims or violate Saudi regulations.”

Reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the interests of Nigerian pilgrims, the commission added that it “continues to engage relevant Saudi authorities to ensure that both private and public sector operators deliver services that meet international standards.”