2026 Hajj: NAHCON Reiterates Monday Deadline for Fitness Certificates
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a fresh reminder to intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj, reiterating that Monday 2 March, remains the final deadline for the submission of mandatory Health Fitness Certificates.
The Commission’s latest update follows earlier directives on the requirement, stressing that there will be no extension beyond the stipulated date.
It maintained that the medical fitness certificate is a core prerequisite in the documentation chain and a critical condition for visa processing.
According to NAHCON, any intending pilgrim who fails to complete the required medical screening and submit the certificate on or before the deadline risks being excluded from the visa processing phase.
The Commission explained that without verified health clearance, affected applicants may be unable to secure travel approval, regardless of prior payments or registration status.
The update underscores the operational implications of non-compliance, noting that health certification aligns with international public health protocols and Saudi entry regulations for the Hajj.
NAHCON emphasized that documentation must be fully compiled and transmitted within strict timelines to avoid administrative disruptions.
State pilgrims’ welfare boards and licensed tour operators have been directed to intensify follow-up with their registered pilgrims to ensure total compliance before the cut-off date.
The Commission warned that last-minute submissions may create processing bottlenecks and could ultimately disadvantage defaulting applicants.
Reaffirming its commitment to a seamless and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj operation, NAHCON urged intending pilgrims yet to comply to treat the directive with urgency, stressing that the deadline is definitive and consequential.
