NAHCON Seeks Extension as Saudi Arabia Closes 2026 Hajj Data Capture Portal
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially closed the portal for 2026 Hajj pilgrims’ data capture, prompting the Commission to seek an urgent extension from Saudi authorities.
In a statement issued on Monday, by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON said the closure was effected by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which ended the data-capturing window for intending pilgrims on the Nusuk Masar platform.
The development, the Commission noted, affects Nigerian pilgrims whose data are yet to be successfully uploaded.
NAHCON disclosed that it has formally appealed to the Saudi authorities to grant an extension that would allow all Nigerian Hajj stakeholders complete the capture of outstanding pilgrims.
The Commission expressed optimism that the request would receive favourable consideration and assured that updates would be communicated promptly once feedback is received from Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, the Commission warned intending pilgrims to refrain from making any payments for the 2026 Hajj. According to NAHCON, the payment window for the exercise has been officially closed, and any transaction conducted at this stage through individuals, groups, or agencies is unauthorized.
NAHCON urged members of the public to rely strictly on its verified communication channels for accurate information, stressing that the directive is aimed at protecting pilgrims from fraud and financial exploitation.
The Commission thanked pilgrims and other stakeholders for their patience and cooperation, reaffirming its commitment to working closely with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure a smooth and transparent Hajj process for Nigerian pilgrims.
