NAHCON CUTS ₦19BN FROM 2026 HAJJ COSTS AFTER SAUDI VISIT
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, says the Commission has secured a ₦19 billion cost reduction for the 2026 Hajj.
Speaking in Kano after an official visit to Saudi Arabia, he said the move will save over ₦200,000 per pilgrim. Nigeria has been allocated 66,910 slots for the exercise.
According to him, NAHCON signed new service contracts covering transport, accommodation, and feeding at improved rates. Official fares are set at ₦8.12m (Maiduguri/Yola), ₦8.24m (other northern states), and ₦8.56m (southern states).
He urged State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards to remit 50% of fares by October 8, 2025, while full payment from pilgrims is due December 31, 2025, stressing that early payments ensure smooth operations.
Prof. Saleh assured that NAHCON is committed to a seamless 2026 Hajj and called on the media for support.