The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged prospective pilgrims to make payments early in order to ensure a smoother Hajj experience. Chairman Professor Abdullahi Usman made the appeal during a media briefing in Katsina, following a courtesy visit to Governor Dikko Radda. The two leaders discussed strategies to ease the upcoming pilgrimage, focusing on the challenges pilgrims face, particularly the high cost of Hajj fares and difficulties with Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) payments.
Professor Usman said the commission is exploring ways to lower the 2026 Hajj fare, although any reduction remains subject to confirmation. He stressed that early registration is crucial because late payments limit the commission’s ability to secure quality accommodation for pilgrims. Governor Radda pledged his support for NAHCON’s efforts, announcing that he will work with other northern governors to raise awareness about the importance of early registration. He also directed the Commissioner of Religious Affairs to launch a sensitisation campaign through various media outlets.
This call for earlier payments follows NAHCON’s recent announcement of a major restructuring aimed at reducing Hajj fares. The planned sensitisation campaign and the emphasis on early registration are part of broader efforts to improve the overall Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. By addressing logistical challenges and encouraging timely payments, NAHCON hopes pilgrims can focus on the spiritual aspects of the journey without undue stress. As the 2026 Hajj season approaches, these initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on the pilgrimage experience for thousands of Nigerians.
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