NAHCON introduces N250m bank guarantee, stricter rules for Hajj operators

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has introduced new regulations for licensed private Hajj and Umrah tour operators ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage, including a mandatory N250 million bank guarantee and stricter operational requirements aimed at protecting pilgrims and improving service delivery.
The reforms, contained in a July 20, 2026 circular signed by the Deputy Director of Operations, Mrs. Hafsatu Baba Tela, replace the previous refundable cash deposit with a bank guarantee.

Under the new guidelines, operators must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), possess valid International Air Transport Association (IATA) accreditation, employ qualified personnel and submit audited financial statements, tax clearance certificates, bank references and records of Hajj operations over the past three years.

NAHCON also directed operators to secure accommodation and transportation before approval, submit Hajj packages for vetting before advertising fares, disclose package costs and maintain transparent refund policies.

The commission further mandated compliance with Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk digital platform, quarterly operational reporting, emergency response plans and the appointment of male and female Islamic scholars to guide pilgrims.

It warned that unlicensed operators displaying banners at pilgrimage sites would be sanctioned, while unresolved disputes with pilgrims could be referred to the EFCC or ICPC.

NAHCON said operators who fail to comply with the new requirements risk fines, suspension or revocation of their licences.