Breaking: NAHCON Raises Hajj Caution Deposit for Travel Operators to N250 Million
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has significantly increased the financial requirement for licensed Hajj and Umrah tour operators, replacing the refundable cash caution deposit with a mandatory N250 million bank guarantee as part of sweeping reforms for the 2027 pilgrimage.
NAHCON issued the new directive in a circular dated July 20, 2026, to all licensed tour operator companies across the country.
NAHCON said the review forms part of efforts to align its regulatory framework with current realities, strengthen consumer protection, and improve the quality of services provided to Nigerian pilgrims.
Under the revised guidelines, every company seeking to operate Hajj and Umrah services in 2027 must register as a travel agency with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), obtain a N250 million bank guarantee in line with Section 16 (4) of the NAHCON Establishment Act, 2006, and maintain valid International Air Transport Association (IATA) accreditation.
The Commission also requires operators to employ accredited staff, demonstrate a proven track record in handling pilgrimages, integrate their operations with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 through the Nusuk platform, and provide confirmed accommodation and transportation for pilgrims.
Breaking: NAHCON Raises Hajj Caution Deposit for Travel Operators to N250 Million
In addition, applicants must submit three years of tax clearance certificates, audited financial statements, evidence of Hajj slot utilization over the last three years, annual CAC returns, and a bank reference confirming the company’s financial standing and creditworthiness.
Beyond the licensing requirements, NAHCON directed operators to maintain transparent pricing, honor refund policies, employ certified personnel, develop emergency response plans, submit quarterly operational reports, and provide orientation programs for pilgrims.
The Commission further warned that violations of the new regulations could attract sanctions ranging from warnings and fines to suspension or revocation of operating licenses.
NAHCON also announced that it will refer unresolved disputes between tour operators and pilgrims to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for further investigation.
NAHCON said the new measures will strengthen accountability, improve regulatory compliance, and enhance service delivery ahead of the 2027 Hajj operations.
