? Following the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) commencement of preparations for the 1448H/2027 Hajj season, several State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards have begun collecting initial deposits from intending pilgrims in line with the Commission’s directive.

?NAHCON had, through a circular dated June 15, 2026, titled “Commencement of Preparations for 1448H/2027 Hajj Season,” directed all State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and licensed Private Tour Operators to immediately begin preparatory activities. This complies with the official guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

?The initial deposit for the 2027 Hajj has been set at a minimum of ?4 million. The final Hajj fare will be determined and announced later, following consultations with relevant stakeholders and the conclusion of negotiations with service providers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

?To facilitate timely planning and contractual arrangements, the Commission announced September 26, 2026, as the strict deadline for the collection of Hajj fare deposits across all states and private channels.

?In compliance with the directive, a number of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards have already opened their portals for deposit collections, kicking off nationwide preparations in line with the approved timetable for the 2027 pilgrimage.

?NAHCON strongly advised intending pilgrims to make payments only through their respective State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, or accredited Private Tour Operators. The Commission emphasized that intending pilgrims must demand and obtain official receipts for every payment as valid evidence of their transactions.

?According to NAHCON, the early commencement of deposit collections is designed to prevent last-minute rushes and facilitate timely planning for critical logistics, including accommodation, transportation, feeding, healthcare, and security in Saudi Arabia.

?Reaffirming its commitment to a seamless, efficient, and successful 1448H/2027 Hajj operation, NAHCON urged states that are yet to begin the collection exercise to expedite their preparations to meet the regulatory timeline.

 Mahmud Babangida Beli is a staff member of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).