NAHCON Announces End Of Subsidy For Pilgrims

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the Tinubu-led Federal government will no longer provide subsidies for Hajj payments starting from 2025.

This decision marks the end of the concessionary exchange rate offered by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

Consequently, Hajj fares are expected to increase significantly, potentially reaching N10 million per pilgrim.

According to SaharaReporters, the current exchange rate of N1,650 to a dollar and the standard Hajj fare of approximately $6,000 contribute to this projected increase.

NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Sanda Usara confirmed that pilgrims will no longer benefit from the concessionary exchange rate.

Several state pilgrim welfare boards have already advised intending pilgrims to make initial deposits of N8.5 million in anticipation of the price increase.

NAHCON also announced a refund of 150 Saudi Riyal each to 64,682 Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reduced the number of approved Private Tour Operators (PTOs) from 20 to 10, with each company now required to register a minimum of 2,000 pilgrims to secure Hajj visas.

Furthermore, NAHCON’s Executive Council has approved the use of bank guarantees to fulfill the N40 million caution deposit requirement for the 2025 Hajj.

These changes aim to ensure a more sustainable and organized Hajj process. Pilgrims and stakeholders are advised to take note of these updates and plan accordingly.