NAHCON Introduces N250 Million Bank Guarantee for Hajj Operators Ahead of 2027 Pilgrimage

Private Hajj and Umrah tour operators in Nigeria will now have to meet tougher licensing conditions after the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) unveiled sweeping reforms for the 2027 pilgrimage, including a mandatory N250 million bank guarantee.

The new regulations, contained in a circular dated July 20, 2026, and signed by NAHCON’s Deputy Director of Operations, Mrs. Hafsatu Baba Tela, are designed to improve accountability, strengthen service delivery, and better protect Nigerian pilgrims. The commission has also replaced the previous refundable cash deposit with the new bank guarantee requirement.

Under the revised guidelines, every licensed operator 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 evidence of Hajj operations carried out over the past three years.

NAHCON also introduced stricter operational requirements. Tour operators are now expected to secure accommodation and transportation arrangements before receiving approval to participate in the pilgrimage. In addition, all Hajj packages must be submitted to the commission for vetting before prices can be advertised to intending pilgrims.

To improve transparency, operators must clearly disclose the full cost of their packages and maintain clear refund policies. They are also required to comply with Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk digital platform, submit quarterly operational reports, establish emergency response plans, and appoint both male and female Islamic scholars to provide religious guidance to pilgrims.

The commission warned that individuals or organisations operating without licences, including those displaying banners at pilgrimage sites, would face sanctions. It added that disputes between operators and pilgrims that remain unresolved could be referred to anti-corruption agencies such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

NAHCON said the new measures are intended to raise standards across Nigeria’s private Hajj industry and ensure pilgrims receive reliable, transparent, and professional services throughout the 2027 pilgrimage. Operators who fail to comply with the updated regulations risk fines, suspension, or the revocation of their licences.