More than 2,700 Nigerian pilgrims have been denied participation in the 2025 Hajj following the closure of Saudi Arabia’s visa portal, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has confirmed.
The commission, in a statement issued on Monday by its Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Usara, described the situation as unfortunate and disappointing, especially after several attempts to get the Saudi authorities to reconsider the deadline failed.
“Despite concerted efforts to get the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to consider re-opening of visa portal, even for an hour, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria is saddened that this was not achieved,” the statement read.
According to NAHCON, a total of 2,717 intending pilgrims—who completed their payments late were affected by the closure. These included participants under both the public Hajj scheme and licensed private operators.
“In light of the above, NAHCON wishes to console those affected by the visa closure to have faith, knowing that Hajj is an answer to Allah’s call,” the commission stated. “However, it is also advised that all intending pilgrims should always plan for their Hajj ahead of deadlines to avoid disappointments.”
NAHCON revealed that it had proactively secured deadline extensions on four different occasions during the registration process, including extensions for remitting Hajj fares and visa processing timelines.
“Yet, despite several warnings signalling the end of visa issuance by April 19, 2025, with its attendant consequences, some intending pilgrims came late with their Hajj payments,” the statement said.
The commission explained that, in response to appeals from stakeholders, it obtained a one-month grace period for visa issuance, stretching beyond the official April 19 deadline. This extension proved crucial for state pilgrims’ welfare boards and private tour operators finalising travel logistics.
However, NAHCON noted that access to visa processing was permanently blocked on May 19, marking the end of any hope for late applicants.
At the time of the visa closure, NAHCON disclosed that 13,217 visas had already been granted to private tour operators, representing a high compliance rate out of 14,158 registered pilgrims in the private sector.
“Notwithstanding, NAHCON went further within its legal means to accommodate more pilgrims from licensed operators, further boosting the capacity of the operators,” the statement added.
The commission also addressed reports of unauthorised dealings between tour operators and third-party providers of premium Tent A+ accommodation services in Mina, Saudi Arabia.
“NAHCON emphasises that it recognises only Rawaf Mina Company as the sole authorised provider for Tent A+ services during the 2025 Hajj,” the statement warned. “Therefore, NAHCON will not be held responsible for the consequences of any arrangements made outside of this recognised channel.”
The commission concluded by urging all Hajj stakeholders, including intending pilgrims, to abide strictly by official guidelines and timelines to prevent future exclusions.
