The Zamfara State Hajj Commission has been forced to drop 456 intending pilgrims from the 2026 exercise after Saudi Arabia reduced Nigeria’s national quota, lowering the state’s total allocation from 2,207 to 1,741 slots.
The Zamfara State Hajj Commission has announced that 456 intending pilgrims will no longer be able to participate in the 2026 Hajj exercise following a significant reduction in Nigeria’s national quota by Saudi Arabian authorities. The Commission’s Chairman, Alhaji Musa Mallaha, disclosed during an interview on Wednesday that the state’s total allocation was slashed from 2,207 to 1,741 slots. “This affected 456 intending pilgrims from the state who may not be able to participate in this year’s exercise,” he stated, noting that the reduction has forced a difficult reorganization of the state’s pilgrimage roster just as preparations enter their final stages.
Despite the quota reduction, the state government is moving forward with airlift plans from the Zamfara International Airport, coupled with new measures to enhance the experience for those still slated to travel. Mallaha revealed an improvement in welfare packages, noting that each pilgrim will now be provided with two large bags and one small bag, a departure from previous years when only a single bag was issued. “This is part of efforts to improve pilgrims’ welfare and wellbeing,” he said, emphasizing that the commission remains dedicated to ensuring a high standard of care for the remaining participants.
To ensure the spiritual integrity of the pilgrimage, an enlightenment committee has been established to provide comprehensive guidance on Hajj rites in accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad. The committee, which began its work on Tuesday, is conducting sessions across all 14 local government areas of the state ahead of the official flag-off ceremony. While the commission grapples with the impact of the Saudi-mandated cuts, officials maintained that the focus remains on a smooth and successful operation for the 1,741 confirmed pilgrims traveling to the holy land this year.