The 2026 Hajj would only be open to pilgrims who are medically declared fit, according to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
This was revealed by the commission at the 2026 Hajj National Medical Team’s Principal Officers Committee inauguration, when it introduced stricter health regulations meant to safeguard Nigerian pilgrims.
NAHCON Chairman Ismail Abba Yusuf stated during the ceremony that the commission is still dedicated to protecting the health and safety of prospective pilgrims in accordance with the rules established by the Saudi Arabian government.
He emphasized that only pilgrims who are deemed medically healthy and free from certain ailments will be permitted to make the trek.
Yusuf ordered that the registration number of the issuing physician with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) be included on all medical clearance applications.
He claims that authorities who disregard the rules may be punished, and pilgrims who are discovered to be medically unfit upon arriving run the prospect of being sent to Nigeria.
Additionally, he said that departure centers would implement an extra screening layer as a last check prior to airlift.
Ibrahim Abubakar, the head of the National Medical Team, promised the group’s dedication to carrying out the new protocols.
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