The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has stated that Saudi Arabian authorities now mandate the submission of properly processed Medical Fitness Certificates for visa issuance to all pilgrims intending to perform the 2026 Hajj. Consequently, the Commission has instructed all State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and approved Tour Operators to adhere to this new regulation.
In a statement released on Thursday, NAHCON specified that the medical fitness certificates for all registered pilgrims must be submitted by Monday, March 2. The Commission cautioned that failing to meet this deadline would lead to the forfeiture of visa opportunities for the affected pilgrims.
NAHCON explained that this requirement is part of a comprehensive regulatory update implemented by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to enhance health and safety measures and improve the logistical aspects of Hajj operations globally.
The Commission also clarified that Nigeria's reduced Hajj quota, from 95,000 to 50,000 pilgrims, is a general measure applicable to all participating nations. This adjustment aims to strengthen health protocols and operational efficiency, according to Saudi Arabian authorities.
The full statement reads:
SUBMISSION OF MEDICAL FITNESS CERTIFICATES FOR HAJJ 2026
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) hereby notifies all State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Licensed Tour Operators that Saudi Authorities have made the submission of duly processed Medical Fitness Certificates a mandatory requirement for the issuance of visas for all pilgrims in the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Accordingly, all State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Licensed Tour Operators are required to urgently submit the Medical Fitness Certificates of all pilgrims registered under them no later than Monday, 2nd March 2026.
It is important to clarify that these measures are not peculiar to Nigeria but form part of a broader regulatory framework being implemented by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to better manage pilgrim affairs and mitigate health risks.
Kindly note that failure to submit the required Medical Fitness Certificates within the stipulated deadline will result in the forfeiture of visa opportunities for the affected pilgrims.
Meanwhile, NAHCON wishes to inform the General Public that the reduction of Nigeria’s Hajj quota from 95,000 to 50,000 is a strategy by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to strengthen health protocols and logistics and these measures affect all participating countries, including Nigeria
The Commission appreciates your full cooperation and prompt attention to this matter.
Signed:
NAHCON
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