A leading Saudi Arabian Hajj service provider, Mashariq Al-Dhahabiah (Sana), has assured Nigerian pilgrims that all participants in the 2027 Hajj exercise will receive their NUSUK cards before departing for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The commitment was announced by the company's Head of Nigerian Operations for the 2026 Hajj, Mr. Muhammad Kamil Kalantan, in a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja.
The NUSUK card, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, serves as an official identification document for pilgrims. It grants access to key Hajj locations, transportation services, accommodation arrangements, and emergency healthcare facilities, while also confirming a pilgrim's authorised status.
Kalantan revealed that the company had successfully piloted an early card distribution initiative during the 2026 Hajj season, enabling intending pilgrims from Lagos State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to obtain their NUSUK cards before leaving Nigeria.
According to him, the initiative was introduced in response to challenges encountered by many Nigerian pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj, particularly delays associated with the issuance of the identification cards.
"Before the commencement of the 2026 Hajj, we deployed our personnel to Nigeria to facilitate the issuance of NUSUK cards. The exercise served as a test run and allowed pilgrims from Lagos and the FCT to receive their cards ahead of arrival in Saudi Arabia," he said.
He noted that the experience significantly improved the movement and coordination of pilgrims, making the entire process smoother compared to previous years.
Encouraged by the success of the pilot scheme, Kalantan said the company had resolved to extend the programme nationwide, ensuring that all Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2027 Hajj receive their cards before departure.
He explained that timely access to the NUSUK card plays a crucial role in enhancing pilgrims' experiences, as it simplifies procedures upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
"With the card already in hand, pilgrims can seamlessly access airport services, board designated buses, check into their accommodation, and enjoy other essential services through a simple barcode scan," he explained.
Kalantan added that the card also provides easier access to feeding arrangements, transportation networks, healthcare services, and facilities within the holy sites of Makkah, Madinah, and Masha'ir.
The company executive also commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), led by Chairman and CEO, Ismail Yusuf, as well as the Forum of State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies and Commissions headed by Idris Almakura, for their support during the 2026 Hajj operations.
He praised the strong collaboration between Saudi service providers and Nigerian Hajj authorities, describing the level of coordination and professionalism displayed throughout the pilgrimage as exceptional.
Kalantan attributed the success of the 2026 Hajj operation to effective leadership, strategic planning, and the commitment of both federal and state pilgrimage officials, noting that their collective efforts helped deliver a more efficient and memorable experience for Nigerian pilgrims.
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