The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has alerted the general public to the activities of fraudulent individuals and unregistered travel agencies falsely claiming to facilitate Hajj visa procurement despite the official closure of the process.
In a public announcement issued by its management, the Commission disclosed that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had formally closed the issuance of Hajj visas for the 2026 pilgrimage on 1st Shawwal 1447 AH, corresponding to March 20, 2026.
The Commission noted that it successfully secured visas for all eligible intending pilgrims who completed their registration before the deadline.
NAHCON expressed concern over reports that some unscrupulous agents, operating through fake social media platforms and illegal travel outfits, are misleading unsuspecting members of the public with false promises of “guaranteed Hajj visas.”
According to the statement, Saudi authorities have not only concluded Hajj visa issuance but have also placed a temporary suspension on other visa categories, including tourist, work, and family visit visas.
The Commission emphasized that Hajj cannot be performed using any alternative visa, stressing that only an official Hajj permit obtained through designated channels is recognized.
It further warned that strict penalties await violators of Saudi regulations, including imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately N8.15 million), and deportation with a 10-year ban from re-entering the Kingdom.
NAHCON advised the public to seek accurate information exclusively through the Commission and State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, or Commissions, adding that all Hajj registrations are conducted via the official Nusuk platform.
The Commission urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid making payments to individuals or organizations offering unofficial visa arrangements, while encouraging the reporting of fraudulent activities to relevant security agencies.