NAHCON to Refer Tour Operators to EFCC, ICPC Over Unresolved Pilgrim Complaints
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has warned licensed Hajj and Umrah tour operators that it will refer unresolved disputes with pilgrims to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) as part of stricter regulatory measures for the 2027 pilgrimage.
NAHCON announced the directive in a circular dated July 20, 2026, issued to all licensed tour operator companies nationwide as part of a comprehensive review of its operational guidelines, processes and procedures.
The circular, signed by NAHCON’s Director of Operations, Mrs. Hafsatu Baba Tela, on behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, directed all licensed Hajj and Umrah tour operators to comply with the revised guidelines ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage.
The Commission said the reforms aim to strengthen consumer protection, improve accountability and ensure that operators deliver quality services to Nigerian pilgrims in line with its statutory mandate.
Under the new framework, tour operators must establish transparent complaint resolution mechanisms and promptly address grievances raised by pilgrims.
NAHCON warned that companies that fail to resolve disputes internally could face investigations by the country’s leading anti-corruption agencies.
NAHCON to Refer Tour Operators to EFCC, ICPC Over Unresolved Pilgrim Complaints
Beyond criminal referrals, the Commission said it would impose administrative sanctions on operators that violate its regulations. The penalties include warnings, monetary fines, suspension of operating licenses and outright revocation of licenses, depending on the severity of the offence.
NAHCON also directed operators to maintain transparent pricing and refund policies, employ qualified personnel, keep accurate operational records and comply with all Hajj payment directives issued by the Commission.
In addition, operators must develop emergency response plans, submit quarterly operational reports, provide orientation programs for intending pilgrims and deploy designated representatives in Saudi Arabia to coordinate services during the pilgrimage.
The Commission further instructed companies to provide confirmed accommodation and transportation arrangements, appoint male and female Islamic scholars to guide pilgrims, and integrate their operations with Saudi Arabia’s digital Nusuk platform.
NAHCON said the new measures form part of broader reforms designed to enhance regulatory oversight, protect pilgrims from exploitation and improve service delivery during the 2027 Hajj and Umrah operations.
The Commission stressed that all licensed operators must comply fully with the revised guidelines or risk losing their authorization to participate in future Hajj and Umrah exercises.
