The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, says the recent directive to reduce the cost of the 2026 Hajj by President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima was both thoughtful and timely.
The commission, in a statement by its chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, described the directive as “a great relief to intending pilgrims across the country.”
It further noted that the President’s instruction to review Hajj fares downward shows a government that listens and responds to the people’s concerns, adding that it reflects genuine empathy for the financial strain faced by many Muslims who dream of performing the sacred pilgrimage.
NAHCON, in the statement signed by its Deputy Director, Information and Publications, Fatima Sanda Usara, equally hailed the government’s call on pilgrims and State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to take advantage of the current appreciation of the Naira by making early remittances.
“The directive and recommendation for early remittances show a deep understanding of both NAHCON’s operational challenges and the economic realities of our pilgrims. It is another clear example of a responsive and people-focused administration that steps in with practical solutions, especially to the commission.
“This directive reinforces President Tinubu’s steady support for improving Hajj management in Nigeria through interventions that make the exercise more affordable, transparent, and well-coordinated,” the statement stressed.
It, however, assured that NAHCON would work closely with all stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of the directive and to deliver a smooth and rewarding 2026 Hajj for Nigerian pilgrims.
The commission, therefore, called on intending pilgrims to hasten and make payment sequel to disclosure of the new fare which would be announced soon, saying “this will enable their boards to make early remittances that will enable the Central Bank of Nigeria to use the favorable exchange rate for the Hajj services.”
Tinubu’s directive to cut 2026 Hajj cost, timely, thoughtful – NAHCON