MAKKAH, Saudi Arabia – The Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Riyadh, Dr. Modibbo Umar, has warned that any Nigerian caught performing the 2025 Hajj without a permit faces a fine of 100,000 Saudi Riyals, deportation, and a 10-year ban from entering the Kingdom.
Dr. Umar gave the warning at the 2025 Pre-Arafat Stakeholders’ meeting organized by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in Makkah on Monday. He noted that the penalty for illegal Hajj pilgrims was 50,000 riyals last year but has now doubled.
“We have very strong advice for our pilgrims,” he said. “We must be law-abiding and adhere strictly to the rules of our Saudi hosts. The authorities have sent a clear message: no permit, no Hajj. Offenders risk a fine of 100,000 riyals, deportation, and a 10-year ban from Saudi Arabia.”
Umar also called on Nigerian pilgrims to use the holy period to pray for peace and progress in Nigeria, saying, “May we leave a better country for our children and grandchildren.”
Speaking at the same event, NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, emphasized that all stakeholders must serve pilgrims diligently.
“Our job is to serve the pilgrims because they have paid for this experience,” Saleh stated. “Whether you’re in the states, the medical team, media, or NAHCON staff, your role is a contract to serve.”
He urged collaboration among all teams to ensure the smooth running of the Hajj, noting, “We must support each other and prioritize the needs of the pilgrims. They are our guests and, more importantly, guests of Allah.”
Also speaking, NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofi Elegushi, explained that the pre-Arafat meeting was crucial for sharing updates and resolving emerging concerns ahead of the movement to Arafat and Munna.
“It’s a platform for sharing information, addressing challenges, and ensuring all stakeholders are fully prepared for the days ahead,” he said.
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