In a remarkable move, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced the extension of the deadline for the 2024 hajj registration. This decision comes after intense advocacy from religious clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, Governors, and other stakeholders who expressed deep concerns about the closure of the registration process.
Fatima Usara, the Assistant Director of Public Affairs at NAHCON, revealed that the Federal Government has approved the extension, setting the new deadline for January 31. This extension provides an invaluable opportunity for more individuals to participate in the sacred pilgrimage, reflecting the commission’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for a broader spectrum of the faithful eager to embark on the spiritual journey of Hajj.
Moreover, NAHCON is confident that, with the support of its sister agencies, the commission will be able to determine the total cost of the 2024 hajj before the expiration of the new deadline. The extension also offers a window for new registrants to sign up, allowing ample time for those who need to balance up payments by the end of January.
It’s worth noting that the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has stipulated February 25 as the deadline for signing all contracts, signaling the end of payments into IBAN accounts. Therefore, NAHCON faces a tight timeline to finalize the payment of all hajj deposits into its IBAN account for the 2024 Hajj.
This extension, albeit stretching NAHCON’s preparatory timeline, underscores the commission’s Chairman, Malam Jalal Arabi’s dedication to accommodating the concerns of stakeholders. Arabi expressed gratitude to religious leaders, state boards, and governors for their advocacy on behalf of the pilgrims, emphasizing the shared commitment to facilitating a meaningful and inclusive Hajj experience for all.
As the new deadline looms, NAHCON calls upon all Hajj handlers to utilize this opportunity effectively for the success of the 2024 Hajj operations.
This extension not only demonstrates the responsiveness of the authorities to the needs of the intending pilgrims but also highlights the collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring a smooth and inclusive Hajj experience. With the global significance of Hajj, this exceptional decision by NAHCON is set to have a far-reaching impact.
