(DDM) – The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has formally signed the 2026 Hajj service contract with Saudi-based Rawaf Mina Company in Makkah.
The agreement was sealed inside NAHCON’s Ummul Judd office, marking a major milestone in early preparations for next year’s pilgrimage.
According to DDM, the contract brings together Nigerian licensed tour operators and the Saudi service provider under a unified operational framework for the 2026 exercise.
NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, led the Nigerian delegation in the signing ceremony.
He reminded the service provider that Nigerian pilgrims demand full value for their money and expect high-standard services during their stay in the Kingdom.
He added that NAHCON has reviewed performance lapses recorded in the previous Hajj and documented every outstanding issue.
He said the commission expects Rawaf Mina Company to strengthen its operations, deliver improved services, and follow strictly all agreed timelines.
Professor Usman described Rawaf Mina as a “partner in progress” and insisted that both sides must work together to raise the standard of welfare enjoyed by Nigerian pilgrims.
He noted that the company was engaged last year and has since been evaluated in detail, giving NAHCON a clear understanding of areas requiring urgent improvement.
He expressed optimism that the firm would surpass past performance and meet the expectations of thousands of intending pilgrims.
The NAHCON Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Olarenwaju Elegushi, also addressed the gathering.
He emphasised that NAHCON’s core responsibility is to regulate tour operators and safeguard the welfare of pilgrims throughout the Hajj season.
He assured that the commission will continue to monitor tour operator activities and ensure compliance with all operational guidelines.
Responding on behalf of his company, the CEO of Rawaf Mina, Mr. Zuhair Abdel Hamid Sadayo, pledged total commitment to meeting Nigeria’s expectations.
He thanked Nigerian tour operators for their confidence and said a dedicated technical team will be established to handle all challenges identified during past operations.
He promised that Nigerian pilgrims “will smile” in 2026, adding that Rawaf Mina is fully prepared for a better and more efficient service year.
The National President of the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria, AHUON, Abdullateef Yusuf Ekundayo, delivered a vote of thanks.
He expressed appreciation to NAHCON for its continued support and reaffirmed the tour operators’ readiness for full collaboration.
He said the association expects a more successful operation in 2026, especially with the commitment shown by Rawaf Mina and the oversight of NAHCON.
Leaders from the Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria, HUTON, and representatives of other licensed companies were also present at the ceremony.
DDM gathered that the agreement forms part of NAHCON’s broader reforms aimed at improving service delivery, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring a more spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for Nigerian Muslims next year.
