The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced new Hajj fares for pilgrims from different regions of the country. According to a statement by the commission spokesperson, Fatima Usara, newly-registered pilgrims from the Southern parts of Nigeria will pay N8,454,464.74, while those from the North Zone and Adamawa/Borno axis will pay N8,254,464.74 and N8,225,464.74 respectively.
The commission expressed gratitude for the support and understanding shown by stakeholders amidst the challenges faced in setting the 2024 Hajj fares. Due to delays in remittances and shifts in exchange rates, Nigerian pilgrims are now required to pay an additional balance to cover the increased costs.
In response to the situation, the Federal Government intervened to reduce the burden on pilgrims, but not all registered pilgrims were covered by the interventions. NAHCON has urged state governments and individuals to support their pilgrims, in addition to the government’s efforts to reduce the Hajj fare.
With the recent appreciation of the Naira against the Dollar and consultations with stakeholders, NAHCON has set a new balance of N1,918,032.91 for each pilgrim to pay in accordance with the current exchange rate. Pilgrims are advised to make the payment by 28th March 2024 to secure their spots for the Hajj.
Affected pilgrims are encouraged to visit their state pilgrims boards to confirm their status and make the necessary payments. The commission provided a detailed table showing the number of pilgrims from each state who have paid the Hajj fare and are expected to benefit from the interventions.
Any new registrations for the 2024 Hajj will attract the full fare depending on the region, with a deadline set for all categories to make their payments. NAHCON emphasized the importance of timely actions from stakeholders to ensure smooth arrangements for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.
In conclusion, NAHCON reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Muslims and called for cooperation from all parties involved in the process.
