Rita Odafe
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has declared that starting in 2025, the Federal government under Tinubu will cease its subsidies for Hajj expenses.
This shift also ends the special exchange rate previously provided by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
As a result, the cost of Hajj is expected to increase drastically, with estimates suggesting up to N10 million per pilgrim.
Reports from SaharaReporters indicate that with the current rate of N1,650 to a dollar and a standard fare of around $6,000, this rise in costs is anticipated.
NAHCON spokesperson, Fatima Sanda Usara, confirmed that the concessionary exchange rate will no longer be available to pilgrims.
Some state pilgrim welfare boards have started recommending that potential pilgrims make an initial payment of N8.5 million in preparation for the expected hike in costs.
In addition, NAHCON announced that 64,682 Nigerians who participated in the 2023 Hajj will receive a refund of 150 Saudi Riyals each.
Moreover, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has decreased the number of authorized Private Tour Operators (PTOs) from 20 to 10, and each operator must now register a minimum of 2,000 pilgrims to obtain Hajj visas.
NAHCON’s Executive Council further approved using bank guarantees to meet the N40 million caution deposit needed for the 2025 Hajj.
These updates are intended to create a better-structured and sustainable Hajj process. All pilgrims and stakeholders are urged to consider these changes and plan their arrangements accordingly.
