Naira Crisis: Hajj Commission Requires Intending Pilgrims To Pay Additional N1.9 Million

Naira Crisis: Hajj Commission Requires Intending Pilgrims To Pay Additional N1.9 Million

Amidst the fluctuating Naira against the US dollar, the National Hajj Commission has instructed intending pilgrims for 2024 to remit an extra N1.918 million, as disclosed through its official channels on Sunday. The Commission set a deadline for payment by 11:59 pm on March 28, 2024……..READ ALSO Gombe Teen Wins International Qur’anic Contest, Secures Free Hajj Journey

Previously, the Commission had set the Hajj fare at approximately 4.9 million Naira, contingent on the departure zone, as sanctioned by the government. However, due to the Naira’s revaluation against the US dollar in the foreign exchange market, additional costs have arisen.

According to NAHCON, 6,441 intending pilgrims have already made their initial payments and are urged to verify their status through their respective state pilgrims boards. Notably, Bauchi recorded the highest number of participants at 2,290, followed by Adamawa with 1,767, and Edo with 265, among others.

With this latest adjustment, the total Hajj cost for 2024 amounts to N6.818 million, varying depending on the location.

The Commission emphasized the strict timeline for Hajj preparations, highlighting challenges arising from delays in fare remittances and shifts in exchange rates. Despite efforts by the Federal Government to intervene and minimize costs, the Hajj fare was affected by the harmonization of foreign exchange rates.

NAHCON clarified that each pilgrim is required to pay the balance of N1,918,032.91 by March 28, 2024, in line with the current foreign exchange rate. The Commission will close its payment system by March 29, 2024, with no further payments accommodated thereafter.

Intending pilgrims are advised to verify their status through their state pilgrims boards promptly.