The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has raised concerns over the delayed payment of 2026 Hajj fares, warning that late remittances by intending pilgrims could hinder the commission’s ability to secure quality accommodations in Mecca and Medina.
The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh-Usman, made this known in Katsina on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Dikko Radda. He appealed for the governor’s support, particularly in his capacity as Chairman of the North-West Governors Forum, to encourage early payments from pilgrims.
Federal Government’s Support for the Hajj Subsidy
Prof. Saleh-Usman highlighted the successes recorded during the 2024 Hajj exercise, crediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing critical interventions.
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A ₦90 billion subsidy was approved to cushion the effect of rising forex rates on pilgrims.
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An additional ₦24 billion bailout was released to settle outstanding payments to 2023 Hajj airlines, preventing potential collapse.
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The Federal Government also intervened in negotiations with Hajj carriers, allowing payments in local currency to protect pilgrims from forex shocks.
Call for Timely Action
He stressed that while government support had significantly eased past challenges, timely payments for 2026 remain crucial. “Delays will make it difficult to secure prime accommodations close to the Holy Mosques, which directly affects pilgrims’ comfort and overall Hajj experience,” Saleh-Usman said.
