**Nigeria's Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia: Strict Compliance with Health Regulations Assured** As the 2026 Hajj season draws near, Nigeria's National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has reaffirmed its commitment to adhering to Saudi Arabia's strict health and operational guidelines. The pledge was made by NAHCON's Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf Abba, during a virtual meeting with Saudi authorities. In a bid to ensure seamless arrangements for Nigerian pilgrims, NAHCON has been engaging in sustained coordination efforts with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Key issues discussed during the meeting included visa processing, health certification compliance, flight scheduling, and accommodation synchronisation. The commission has made significant progress in these areas, with over 70 per cent of pilgrims' grouping completed and medical approvals for more than 10,000 intending pilgrims uploaded into the Nusuk Masar system. However, the Saudi Ministry has sent a warning to pilgrims and NAHCON alike, emphasizing the importance of full compliance with health requirements. Dr. Al Hassan Manakhra, the Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah in charge of International Collaboration, announced that random health checks would be conducted at entry points into the Kingdom to verify the authenticity of submitted health certificates. He warned that any pilgrim found with a fake or falsified fitness certificate would be returned to Nigeria immediately, and medical personnel responsible for such certificates would face sanctions. In response, NAHCON Chairman Ambassador Abba reiterated the commission's zero-tolerance stance on irregularities. He assured that multiple safeguards have been instituted to prevent irregularities, including the use of designated and accredited hospitals for medical screening and verification of certificates through doctors' registration numbers. Furthermore, additional health checks would be conducted at various departure centres across Nigeria by members of the National Medical Team to ensure that only medically fit pilgrims are airlifted. The Saudi Ministry also emphasized the need for proper alignment between flight schedules and confirmed accommodation, particularly in Madinah. This is to ensure that pilgrims have a smooth and hassle-free experience during their stay in Saudi Arabia. As the 2026 Hajj season approaches, NAHCON's commitment to strict compliance with health regulations is a welcome development for Nigerian pilgrims. With the emphasis on safeguarding pilgrims' wellbeing and protecting Nigeria's reputation, pilgrims can be assured of a safe and successful Hajj experience.