Contrary to widespread claims circulating on social media, Nigerians are not barred from participating in the 2025 hajj pilgrimage. The Saudi Arabian government’s recent suspension of short-term visas does not affect hajj pilgrims.
A number of Facebook posts in Nigeria have falsely reported that Saudi Arabia imposed a visa ban on Nigerians ahead of this year’s hajj. However, official clarifications reveal that the restriction only applies to new short-term visas, such as tourist, business, and family visit visas for 14 countries, including Nigeria. The policy, which took effect on 13 April, does not impact hajj visas.
The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam, is set to take place between 4 and 9 June 2025, corresponding to 8 to 13 Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar. Nigeria, a country with a large Muslim population, sends thousands of pilgrims to the holy city each year, often through arrangements coordinated by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Addressing the online misinformation, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly denied the existence of any ban on Nigerian pilgrims.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to categorically refute the false claims circulating online, alleging that Nigeria has been included in a list of countries facing an entry ban into Saudi Arabia from April 13, 2025,” the ministry said in a statement.
The ministry further clarified that Saudi authorities confirmed no such directive was in place. The only limitation, it said, applies to tourist visa holders, who are not allowed to perform hajj or enter Mecca between 29 April and 11 June 2025.
The suspension of short-term visas is reportedly aimed at managing congestion during the pilgrimage season. Travelers are advised to verify information through official channels before making travel decisions.