The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has extended pilgrims data capturing and grouping of pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.
In a statement signed by the Deputy Director Information and Public Relations of the Commission, Fatima Sanda Usara, said on the instruction of the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Kashim Shettima, the Honorable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tugga, had reached out to Saudi authorities to grant special extension to Nigeria to allow for pilgrims data capturing to be completed. The Saudi authorities have graciously accepted the request for the extension.
However, it is expected that after expiration of this extension, the Saudi authorities will not accept any further requests for extension emphasizing speedy completion of the process.
Hajj managers are therefore advised to work round the clock in ensuring that the process is completed within the shortest possible time.
This extension is coming barely 48 hours after the worldwide closure of the Nusuk Masar data capturing platform. The content of the circular urged Hajj agencies “… to complete and finalize all required pilgrims data as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute issues.”
Meanwhile, former NAHCON Chairman Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima for the opportunity to serve as NAHCON Chairman. This was contained in a statement he officially released today 10th February 2026, declaring that the resignation took effect from Monday, 9th February 2026.
The letter has been submitted in writing to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in full compliance with Section 3(6) of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2006.
Professor Usman cited personal grounds, following careful reflection and prayer, as the main reason for his resignation. He has emphasized that his departure is not linked to any dissatisfaction with the Commission, the Federal Government, or the mandate of NAHCON.
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman took over from Malam Jalal Arabi on 20th August 2024 on acting capacity before he was confirmed by the Senate as full time Chairman of the Commission on 10th October 2024.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the prestigious University of Madina, a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies from Peshawar University, Pakistan, and a Doctorate in Islamic Studies from Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
Professor Usman had served as the Chairman of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board and is a renowned Islamic scholar.
The Management and staff of NAHCON acknowledge Professor Usman’s service to Nigerian pilgrims and other stakeholders.
The Commission remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to delivering effective, efficient, and pilgrim-focused services to Nigerian pilgrims, and is fully prepared to work tirelessly towards the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj season.