NAHCON responds as Saudi Arabia suspends Hajj visas for Nigeria

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has suspended the issuance of Hajj visas to Nigeria and 13 other countries ahead of the 2025 pilgrimage season.

The decision, which comes just months before the annual Hajj, has left thousands of intending pilgrims in uncertainty, particularly in Nigeria—one of the countries with the highest number of annual pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah.

Though Riyadh has not issued an official explanation, sources familiar with diplomatic discussions point to a range of possible factors, including irregularities in travel documentation, incomplete biometric data, and recent adjustments to Saudi Arabia’s Hajj policy.

The suspension affects not only Nigeria but also countries such as Pakistan, Sudan, and Ethiopia, among others in Africa and Asia.

The timing of the move is particularly disruptive, as this is the period when Hajj preparations—including payments, visa processing, and travel logistics—are typically at their peak.

In response, Nigeria’s National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) has urged calm among affected pilgrims and stakeholders. In a statement, the commission said,

“We are aware of the suspension and are actively engaging Saudi authorities through diplomatic channels to seek clarity and resolution.”;

NAHCON further advised intending pilgrims to avoid panic.

“While we understand the anxiety this has caused, we ask all registered pilgrims to remain calm and refrain from making hasty decisions. We are working with our partners to ensure the issue is addressed swiftly.”;

The fallout from the visa halt is already being felt across the Hajj ecosystem—travel agencies, state pilgrims’ boards, and individuals who have paid deposits or completed biometric registrations face possible financial and emotional strain if the issue remains unresolved.