The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has appealed to intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to pay their fares early, warning that delays could affect access to quality accommodation in Mecca and Medina.
NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh-Usman, made this appeal on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda.
Saleh-Usman, who noted that the governor is also the Chairman of the North-West Governors Forum, said his support was needed to encourage early payments across the region.
“The late payment of fares by pilgrims has always posed a major challenge. If we delay, we risk losing better accommodation in both Mecca and Medina. That is why we are calling for early payment for the 2026 exercise,” he said.
The chairman praised President Bola Tinubu for interventions that made the 2024 Hajj easier for Nigerians despite forex challenges.
“Arising from the economic realities, especially the impact of Forex fluctuations, the President graciously approved a N90 billion intervention fund for the 2024 Hajj, to ease the burden of the new rate on our pilgrims,” he explained.
“He also approved the intervention of N24 billion to settle outstanding payments to 2023 Hajj airlines, which ultimately saved our Hajj carriers from imminent collapse. Additionally, the Federal Government intervened in negotiations with carriers to accept local currency, thereby shielding pilgrims from further forex shocks.”
On financial reforms, Saleh-Usman said: “The federal government, through NAHCON, has expanded the existing Hajj saving scheme by engaging more banks, thereby allowing intending pilgrims to save gradually over time. This is a legacy tool that will serve generations to come, especially our youth and low-income earners.”
He also noted that the commission refunded N5.3 billion to state pilgrim welfare boards for unprovided services during the 2023 Hajj. “This restored public confidence, promoted transparency, and reaffirmed accountability in Hajj management,” he added.
Other reforms highlighted include securing Tent ‘A+’ for VIPs to reduce stress, and renegotiating contracts with Masharig Al-Dhahabia to match the actual number of 2025 pilgrims. According to him, this prevented waste and lowered costs.
Responding, Governor Radda promised to support NAHCON’s sensitisation drive, stressing the importance of timely registration.
“I have directed the Ministry for Religious Affairs and the Pilgrims Welfare Board to intensify awareness campaigns across the state. All communication channels must be used to reach intending pilgrims,” he said.
The governor also urged Islamic clerics to spread the message in their sermons. “Our Ulamas should help by reminding worshippers in their communities about why early registration is necessary,” he added.
