**The 2026 Hajj Visa Saga: NAHCON's Deadline Looms** As the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage draws near, pilgrims from Nigeria are bracing up for a crucial requirement: a medical fitness certificate. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the Saudi authorities have made it mandatory for all pilgrims to submit their medical fitness certificates before visa issuance can be processed. For those planning to embark on the Islamic pilgrimage, this news comes with a deadline: all registered pilgrims' medical fitness certificates must be submitted by Monday, 2nd March. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the forfeiture of visa opportunities for affected pilgrims. But what's behind this new requirement? According to NAHCON, it's part of a broader regulatory framework introduced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to improve health safety and logistics for Hajj operations worldwide. This move is aimed at mitigating health risks and strengthening operational efficiency, a strategy also reflected in the reduction of Nigeria's Hajj quota from 95,000 to 50,000. As the deadline approaches, pilgrims and their representatives are advised to take immediate action. State Muslim Pilgrims' Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Licensed Tour Operators are required to submit the medical fitness certificates of all registered pilgrims by the stipulated date. This is not a Nigerian-specific requirement, but rather a global measure to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims. In a bid to strengthen health protocols and logistics, the Saudi authorities have implemented these measures, affecting all participating countries, including Nigeria. NAHCON urges all stakeholders to cooperate and comply with the directive to avoid any inconvenience. The commission appreciates the public's prompt attention to this matter, ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for all pilgrims.