In a significant development for Nigerian pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has approved an additional 10,000 Hajj slots, raising Nigeria's total allocation to 60,000 for the upcoming 2027 pilgrimage season. This decision follows extensive diplomatic efforts between the Nigerian government and Saudi authorities, as confirmed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

The announcement was made by Shafii Mohammed, the Head of NAHCON's Information and Publications Division, who detailed how the newly approved slots would be distributed. Of the 10,000 extra slots, 7,500 will be allocated to state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards, while 2,500 will be designated for seven lead tour operator companies.

Previously, Nigeria's original quota for the 2027 Hajj was set at 50,000 slots, which comprised 35,000 for government-sponsored pilgrims and 15,000 for licensed tour operators. The increase in slots is seen as a positive outcome of the cordial relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, with NAHCON Chairman Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration for its unwavering support of the Hajj sector.

Ambassador Yusuf highlighted the importance of this expanded quota, stating, "The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed the Commission's profound appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its continued support, guidance and commitment to the Hajj sector and the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims."

In addition to the increase in slots, NAHCON has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that the Hajj experience remains affordable and accessible to average Nigerians. The commission plans to manage the additional slots in strict accordance with both Nigerian and Saudi Arabian regulations, ensuring high standards of service delivery and operational efficiency.

As part of the preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage, NAHCON has also reminded intending pilgrims of the necessity to upload their biometric data to the Nusuk-Masar platform. This requirement was set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, with a deadline that has now been adjusted to accommodate the larger number of pilgrims.

With the new allocation in place, NAHCON is expected to review its operational timetable, including the biometric data submission deadline, to ensure a smooth process for all pilgrims. The commission's proactive measures aim to facilitate a seamless pilgrimage experience for the increasing number of Nigerian pilgrims heading to Saudi Arabia in 2027.