Historic Visit: Saudi Minister of Hajj, Umrah Strengthens Ties with Nigeria
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Minister of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, made a historic first visit to Nigeria on Tuesday to boost cooperation on Hajj and Umrah administration.
Welcoming the delegation, NAHCON Chairman and CEO Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, described the visit as a “clear signal of the Kingdom’s continued partnership with Nigeria in serving the Guests of Allah.”
“This is the first time ever that a Minister of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has visited Nigeria,” said Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar.
The historic meeting focused on deepening cooperation in Hajj and Umrah administration, addressing challenges such as Umrah visa access and ensuring smooth pilgrim operations.
In his remarks, Professor Usman highlighted Saudi Vision 2030’s impact on improving pilgrim welfare, infrastructure, and service efficiency worldwide.
“Nigeria is committed to working closely with Saudi authorities to address visa overstays through tighter regulation, improved accountability, and community engagement,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Al-Rabiah revealed that in 2025, Saudi Arabia hosted approximately 89,000 Nigerian Umrah pilgrims, with 92 percent arriving on Umrah visas.
He also emphasized operational preparedness for the 2026 Hajj, pledging a safe, orderly, and high-quality pilgrimage experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
Both sides agreed to continue close coordination, enhance regulatory compliance, and expand discussions on Nigeria’s growing Hajj quota.
The meeting concluded with mutual prayers for peace, stability, and prosperity for both nations, emphasizing shared religious and cultural ties.
Nigeria and Saudi Arabia’s renewed cooperation represents not only stronger bilateral relations but also a commitment to safeguarding the integrity and welfare of millions of pilgrims.
