By Mariam Zubair Abubakar
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has today, October 16th, held a crucial consultative meeting with state Executives to deliberate on the components of the 2026 Hajj and the Hajj fare reduction as ordered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman/CEO, Alhaji Abdullahi Saleh Pakistan,emphasized the need for unity and synergy between the states and NAHCON in preparing for the 2026 Hajj operation. Stating that NAHCON is ever ready to cooperate and support the states in whatever capacity they require in a statement issued to thetentaclesnews.com.ng
The Commissioner for Operations, Prince Anofiu Olarenwaju Elegushi, declared that the smooth progress of 2026 Hajj preparations hinges on the strong support from both the Chairman/CEO and the states.He further revealed that the Commission’s management was summoned by the Vice President’s office and directed to review and reduce the 2026 Hajj fare.
“Therefore, NAHCON saw the importance of summoning the states to do it harmoniously together for the betterment of the Nigerian pilgrims,” Elegushi stated.
The exchange rate of the US dollar was a key factor deliberated upon calculating the new fare as new Hajj fare will be announced at a later date after receiving final clearance from the Vice President’s office.
State officials were also given the opportunity to select the service companies they wished to work with this year.
Dr. Saidu, the member representing the Ministry of Health, read out new, stricter medical policies from the Saudi Ministry of Health,stressing that all intending pilgrims must be healthy and active, and that mandatory and compulsory medical checks and certificates will be required.
He further emphasized that officials would follow pilgrims to their accommodation at the point of entry in Saudi Arabia to check for those with serious conditions, including: organ failure, neurological/psychiatric disorders, age-related dementia, pregnancy, and active cancer.
Dr. Saidu warned that medical certificates are a prerequisite for a visa and must be presented upon arrival in the Saudi Kingdom. He insisted that all certificates must be signed by an approved health practitioner and that no one should be waved (exempted).
He also stressed the importance of all required vaccines and advised that state pilgrims must be screened and deemed eligible before their payments are collected, in line with the Saudi Ministry of Health’s advice.
The Commissioner, Personnel, Planning, Management, and Finance (PPMF), Alhaji Aliyu Abdulrazaq, updated the forum on all financial matters, including state remittances and the number of pilgrims for camp bookings. He urged the states to conduct rigorous sensitization campaigns to ensure a smooth Hajj operation.
Prof Abubakar Abubakar Yagawal informed the states to collect copies of the circular before departing to their various destinations.
In conclusion,the Adamawa State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar commend and recommend the staff of the National Hajj Commission for their efforts and hard work for a successful Hajj Operation.
