President Bola Tinubu has instructed the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to urgently reduce the 2026 Hajj fares.
The directive came during a meeting led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima with NAHCON’s leadership in Abuja on Monday.
Push for Collaboration
Shettima urged national and state officials, including governors, to work together to set affordable fares. He stressed timely payments and smooth fund transfers to the Central Bank of Nigeria for a seamless Hajj process.
Economic Context Drives Change
Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hadeija explained the goal to journalists post-meeting. He noted that last year’s fares, set at ₦8.5 million to ₦8.6 million, reflected a weaker naira.
With recent economic improvements strengthening the currency, fares should drop. “We’re reviewing rates to pass savings to pilgrims,” Hadeija said.
NAHCON Welcomes the Move
NAHCON Secretary Dr. Mustapha Mohammad praised the directive. “Lower fares will allow more Muslims to perform Hajj,” he said.
He vowed to work swiftly to finalize affordable rates, enhancing access to this key Islamic pillar.
State Leaders Applaud Decision
Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board Chairman, expressed joy at the news. “This intervention will make Hajj more accessible,” he said. “We’re grateful to the President and Vice-President.”
Boosting Pilgrimage Access
Tinubu’s order aims to ease financial burdens for Nigerian pilgrims. By aligning fares with improved economic conditions, NAHCON seeks to ensure more faithful can participate in the 2026 Hajj.
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