2026 Hajj: Edo Muslim Pilgrims Board Issues Deadline Alert
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has issued an urgent alert to intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The Board reminded pilgrims of the February 8, 2026 deadline for mandatory data capturing and group formation.
The warning was contained in a press release signed by Executive Secretary Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir.
Failure to complete registration on the Saudi Nusuk Masar platform will automatically disqualify pilgrims from visa issuance.
The directive followed a high-level virtual meeting held on February 4 with Saudi Hajj authorities.
The meeting involved the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and representatives of participating Hajj countries.
Saudi officials confirmed visa processing officially begins February 8, with all preliminary data finalized same day.
Authorities stressed that March 20, 2026 remains the final deadline for all Hajj visa processing.
Board Chairman Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh highlighted new mandatory requirements for pilgrim group approval.
Conditions include consolidated guarantees and proper classification under Tamattu’i and Qiran pilgrimage categories.
Payments for Hadaya must be completed exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform. Pilgrims opting for fasting instead of sacrifice must document their choice on the platform.
Saudi Arabia also introduced a mandatory backup accommodation policy for participating countries.
Countries must secure Makkah hotels equivalent to one percent of their total pilgrim quota. All participating nations must finalize medical service contracts with accredited Saudi providers.
These measures aim to enhance pilgrim safety, welfare, and operational efficiency. On air travel, Saudi Arabia approved a 40/60 passenger-sharing formula for the 2026 Hajj season.
The adjustment is a temporary concession under the Bilateral Air Service Agreement framework. The Board also warned against visa violations and overstaying by pilgrims.
NAHCON is closely monitoring tour operators to enforce strict visa compliance. The Board urged Edo pilgrims to immediately capture their international passports.
It warned that delays may permanently exclude eligible pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj exercise.
