MAKKAH, Saudi Arabia — Nigerian pilgrims who attempt to perform this year’s Hajj without the required permit risk facing severe penalties including a 100,000 Saudi riyals fine, immediate deportation, and a 10-year entry ban from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
This warning was issued by Dr. Modibbo Umar, Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires in Riyadh, during the 2025 Pre-Arafat Stakeholders’ meeting held in Makkah. Speaking to officials and religious leaders at the high-level gathering, Dr. Umar stressed the need for Nigerian pilgrims to strictly adhere to Saudi Arabia’s Hajj regulations.
“The Saudi authorities are not relenting in enforcing their rules. Any pilgrim caught performing Hajj without a permit will be punished according to the law, regardless of nationality,” he said.
He urged Nigerian Hajj missions, state pilgrims’ welfare boards, and private tour operators to ensure that their pilgrims obtain valid permits, warning that violations could jeopardize future opportunities for Hajj participation.
Saudi Arabia has intensified its enforcement of Hajj regulations in recent years, citing concerns over safety, crowd management, and national security. The permit system is designed to ensure an orderly pilgrimage and prevent overcrowding, which has historically led to tragic incidents during the holy exercise.
Dr. Umar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to collaborating with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure a smooth and compliant Hajj operation for all Nigerian pilgrims in 2025.