NAHCON increases 2024 hajj fare by N1.9m, sets March 28 deadline for payment

• Nigerian pilgrims preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage encounter a significant fare increase of N1,918,032.91, attributed to the forex crisis
• NAHCON, acknowledging the financial constraints, requests pilgrims to supplement payments due to remittance delays and forex harmonization

Nigerian pilgrims gearing up for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia are encountering a fresh obstacle. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) announces a significant fare increase of N1,918,032.91, with a deadline set for March 28, 2024.

The Commission conveyed this adjustment through its spokesperson, Farima Sanda Usara, citing the prevailing forex crisis in Nigeria as the driving force behind the decision.

Initially, NAHCON had fixed the Hajj fare 2024 at N4.9 million, prompting appeals from various quarters for government intervention. However, the commission recently requested pilgrims who had already made payments to supplement an additional N1.9 million, elevating the total fare to N6.8 million.

In a statement, NAHCON expressed gratitude for the understanding and support shown by stakeholders amidst the challenges encountered. The Commission clarified that the timeline for Hajj preparations set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah necessitated adherence to stringent schedules, which collided with delays in remittances and forex harmonization.

The harmonization of forex rates and global financial constraints resulted in an unforeseen surge in Hajj costs, notwithstanding pilgrims’ prior payments. NAHCON, compelled by the urgency of the situation, explored avenues for intervention, urging state governments and affluent individuals to step in on behalf of their pilgrims.

Despite the hurdles, the Commission highlighted the positive impact of government policies to stabilise exchange rates, which facilitated reduced Hajj fares. Following consultations and the recent appreciation of the Naira against the Dollar, NAHCON determined that each pilgrim must pay the balance of N1,918,032.91, reflecting the current exchange rate.

Intending pilgrims were advised to settle the balance by March 28, 2024, as the Commission will close its payment system after that. Pilgrims were further instructed to verify their status through their respective state pilgrims’ boards.

As the deadline looms, Nigerian pilgrims face the challenge of meeting the increased fare, underscoring the complexities of organizing religious pilgrimages amidst economic fluctuations.