The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged intending pilgrims to make earlier payments to facilitate a smoother Hajj exercise. This call was made by the commission’s chairman, Professor Abdullahi Usman, during a media briefing in Katsina, following a courtesy visit to Governor Dikko Radda. The two leaders discussed strategies to ease the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, focusing on reducing challenges faced by pilgrims.

One of the key challenges addressed was the high cost of Hajj fares and difficulties associated with Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) payments. According to Professor Usman, the commission is exploring options to lower the 2026 Hajj fare, although this is subject to confirmation. He emphasized the importance of early registration, noting that late payments hinder the commission’s ability to secure quality accommodation for pilgrims.

Governor Radda pledged his support for NAHCON’s efforts, announcing that he would collaborate with other northern governors to raise awareness about the importance of early registration. To this end, he directed the Commissioner of Religious Affairs to launch a sensitization campaign through various media outlets. This development follows NAHCON’s recent announcement of a major restructuring aimed at reducing Hajj fares.

The call for earlier payments and the planned sensitization campaign are part of broader efforts to improve the overall Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. By addressing logistical challenges and promoting early registration, NAHCON aims to ensure that pilgrims can focus on the spiritual aspects of the journey without undue stress. As the 2026 Hajj season approaches, the commission’s initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on the pilgrimage experience for thousands of Nigerians.