Pilgrims Rejoice As Federal Government Approves Sharp Reduction In Hajj Fees

According to Ireporter Online, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced a major reduction in the Hajj fare for the 2026 pilgrimage, following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at easing the financial burden on intending pilgrims.

The new fare structure provides significant relief for Nigerian Muslims preparing for the holy journey, with reductions varying across the nation’s operational zones. NAHCON, which functions under the Presidency, disclosed that the adjustment cuts as much as ₦792,943.83 from the initial 2025 Hajj fare, depending on the departure location.

Pilgrims from the Southern Zone will benefit the most, with the fare now reduced to ₦7,991,141.76 from ₦8,784,085.59. In the Northern Zone, the fare has been brought down to ₦7,696,769.76 — a decrease of ₦760,915.83 — while those departing from the Borno and Adamawa Zone will now pay ₦7,579,020.96, saving ₦748,104.63.

The Commission has also fixed December 5, 2025, as the final deadline for all payments. Reinforcing this, the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board urged intending pilgrims to complete or balance up their payments before the stipulated date.

In a statement, the Board’s Secretary, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, explained that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced new policies emphasizing early planning, documentation, and visa processing, which necessitate strict compliance with the deadline.

He advised all pilgrims who have made partial payments to settle their outstanding balances immediately, assuring those who paid above the revised fare of prompt refunds after proper reconciliation. Ajomagberin also called on individuals yet to make any payment to act swiftly before the cutoff date.

To ensure wider awareness, the Board announced plans to intensify sensitisation campaigns across all 57 local government areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State. The campaign will include engagements with council chairmen, religious leaders, traditional rulers, sponsors, and organisations supporting pilgrims.

Ajomagberin expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and other stakeholders for their consistent support and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to providing a seamless, transparent, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for all participants.