2027 Hajj: HUTON Calls for Extension of Registration Deadline
By Auwal Ahmad
The Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria, HUTON, has appealed to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, to extend the deadline for the registration of licensed tour operators for the 2027 Hajj from the current August 7, 2026 deadline.
HUTON President, Muhammad Auwal, made the appeal following NAHCON’s recent review of one of the major requirements for participation in the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The Commission reduced the mandatory bank guarantee for licensed tour operators from N250 million to N100 million, a move widely welcomed by stakeholders in the industry.
According to Auwal, while the reduction in the bank guarantee has eased the financial burden on operators, many companies require additional time to complete documentation, secure the revised guarantee, and meet other licensing requirements before the registration closes.
He noted that extending the deadline would ensure that more qualified operators participate in the 2027 Hajj, promote healthy competition, and provide intending pilgrims with a wider range of accredited service providers.
2027 Hajj: HUTON Calls for Extension of Registration Deadline
He expressed confidence that granting a short extension would further strengthen the Commission’s commitment to transparency, inclusiveness, and the successful planning of the 2027 Hajj operations.
NAHCON recently announced the reduction of the bank guarantee from N250 million to N100 million as part of the updated registration requirements for licensed tour operators participating in the 2027 Hajj.
The Commission has set August 7, 2026 as the deadline for the submission of applications.
