Hajj 2027: Saudi Arabia approves extra 10,000 slots for Nigeria

Saudi Arabia has officially increased Nigeria’s Hajj slot quota by 10,000, giving more Nigerians the opportunity to perform the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed the news on Thursday, October 1, 2026, stating that the extra quota came after continuous diplomatic talks between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Saudi authorities.

This development raises Nigeria’s total allocation for the 2027 Hajj exercise from 50,000 to 60,000 slots.

Out of the 10,000 new slots, 7,500 will go to State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards across the country. The remaining 2,500 slots are allocated to seven lead private tour operators.

NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the commission’s efforts. He also thanked Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, for approving the increase.

Ambassador Yusuf assured intending pilgrims that NAHCON will distribute the extra slots fairly and transparently. He added that the commission remains committed to keeping Hajj affordable and well-organized for all Nigerian pilgrims