The annual Hajj pilgrimage to the Holy lands of Makkah and Medina is expected to see Nigerian pilgrims spending over N725.1 billion.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a directive urging pilgrims to pay an additional N1.9 million balance, reflecting current foreign exchange rates, before the March 29, 2024 deadline.
In a statement by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, it was explained that delays and non-remittances of fares had forced the commission beyond the deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. The government intervened, appealing for cost reductions.
Previously registered pilgrims, who paid N4.9 million in February, are now required to pay the additional N1.9 million. New registrants, however, face a higher fee, set at N8.5 million.
Despite the allocation of 95,000 slots for Nigerian pilgrims, only 48,414 have paid the initial fare, averaging N4.8 million. With the added fees, early registrants will contribute approximately N329.2 billion, while new registrants will contribute an estimated N395.9 billion, totaling N725.1 billion.
Comparatively, in 2022, the average Hajj fare was N2.4 million, with 43,000 pilgrims. In 2023, prices rose to about N2.9 million, filling all 95,000 slots.
The significant increase in fares for 2024, exceeding 280% of 2022 prices, coupled with the nearing deadline and withdrawal options, may result in fewer pilgrims this year.
NAHCON acknowledged the challenges, stating, “Hajj preparation follows a strict timeline,” with adjustments made due to currency fluctuations and late remittances.
With only four days left until the payment deadline, the final number of pilgrims for 2024 remains uncertain, potentially falling short of the allocated slots.
