FCT Minister Backs 30% Shift for 2027 Hajj

FCT Minister Backs 30% Shift for 2027 Hajj

The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s proposed changes to Nigeria’s Hajj administration, including the gradual transfer of 30 percent of the country’s pilgrims’ quota to the Business-to-Business (B2B) tour operator system.

Mahmoud made her position known during a policy engagement on the proposed reforms, describing the initiative as an important step towards making Hajj operations more efficient and better organised.

She said Nigeria would continue to respect reforms introduced by the Saudi authorities, while stressing that sufficient time must be provided for stakeholders to adjust to the new arrangement.

The minister welcomed the phased implementation of the B2B model, noting that a gradual transition would enable Nigeria to adapt its existing structures while ensuring that pilgrimage operations continue without disruption.

Mahmoud also commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for what she described as notable achievements recorded during the last Hajj exercise. She, however, called for strict adherence to medical requirements, particularly among pregnant women and pilgrims with chronic health conditions.

Earlier, NAHCON North-Central Zonal Commissioner, Prof Muhammad Unaru Ndagi, disclosed that Saudi authorities had initially proposed moving 98 per cent of Nigeria’s Hajj quota to the B2B model from the 2027 pilgrimage.

Ndagi explained that NAHCON subsequently engaged the Saudi authorities over concerns that an immediate transition could affect Nigeria’s existing Hajj administration, financial arrangements and the ability of ordinary Nigerians to afford the pilgrimage.

According to him, the engagements led to a concession secured on August 18, 2026, allowing Nigeria to migrate 30 per cent of its quota to the B2B system for the 2027 Hajj, with further migration expected in subsequent years.

He said the phased approach would give Nigeria time to strengthen regulation, develop private tour operators, complete digital reforms and ensure that pilgrims’ welfare remains protected.

Ndagi further disclosed that NAHCON had briefed the Vice President and engaged state pilgrims’ welfare boards and other stakeholders as preparations continue. He added that discussions with Saudi authorities were ongoing to develop a mutually acceptable implementation framework.

The commissioner also revealed that preparations for the 2027 Hajj are operating under strict deadlines, with September 26, 2026 set as the final date for uploading pilgrims’ registration details, with no extension expected.

Source: Just Event Online