CSO Calls on NAHCON to Start Early Registration for 2027 Hajj, Proposes Calendar Committee

Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.

The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a civil society organisation, has urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to commence early registration for the 2027 hajj pilgrimage and to establish a hajj calendar harmonisation committee. The appeal is aimed at addressing recurring operational challenges in Nigeria’s hajj preparations, which the group says are largely caused by late pilgrim registration and delays in implementing pre-hajj timelines.

Ibrahim Muhammad, national coordinator of IHR, explained that delayed registration often disrupts planning, coordination, and compliance with timelines set by Saudi authorities. He emphasised that starting registration early would allow smoother deployment of pilgrims, better coordination with state boards and private operators, and more efficient implementation of medical checks, visa processing, orientation programmes, and accommodation arrangements.

The proposed calendar harmonisation committee would oversee and synchronise all hajj-related activities across federal, state, and private stakeholders, ensuring that registration, medical screenings, orientation schedules, and other preparations align with the official hajj calendar and reduce scheduling conflicts.

IHR also highlighted that early registration could help secure funds for contractual obligations with Saudi service providers, prevent last-minute complications, and improve accountability. The group recommended using previous hajj fare data to guide planning for 2027 and encouraged financial institutions to promote hajj savings schemes to help intending pilgrims prepare ahead of time.

The civil society organisation’s call reflects broader efforts to streamline hajj operations in Nigeria, ensuring that pilgrims can perform the pilgrimage efficiently and safely while reducing operational bottlenecks and enhancing overall coordination among all parties involved.

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