Planning to run Hajj tours in 2027? You’ll need more than just a licence now — NAHCON says bring a N250 million bank guarantee or don’t bother.

So, big changes are coming for private Hajj and Umrah operators in Nigeria.

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has just rolled out a fresh set of regulations ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage, and they’re not playing around.

According to a report by cbinews.tv, the Commission is now demanding a mandatory N250 million bank guarantee from all licensed private tour operators. This is contained in a circular dated July 20, 2026, signed by the Deputy Director of Operations, Mrs Hafsatu Baba Tela, and it officially replaces the old refundable cash deposit system.

But that’s not all.

Under the new rules, operators must be duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), have valid IATA accreditation, employ qualified personnel, and provide audited financial statements, tax clearance certificates, bank references, plus a three-year record of their Hajj operations.

NAHCON also says no more advertising random fares. Operators must now secure accommodation and transportation before approval, submit their Hajj packages for vetting before making them public, clearly disclose costs, and maintain a transparent refund policy.

And there’s more compliance to worry about — operators must align with Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk digital platform, file quarterly operational reports, have a proper emergency response plan, and appoint both male and female Islamic scholars to guide pilgrims.

The Commission warned that any unlicensed operator caught displaying banners at pilgrimage sites will be sanctioned, and any unresolved dispute with pilgrims could be escalated to the EFCC or ICPC.

In short, comply or risk it all. NAHCON says failure to meet the new requirements could lead to hefty fines, suspension, or outright revocation of licences.

Source: cbinews.tv

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