Hajj 2026: NAHCON Commends Tinubu, Shettima for Cost Reduction Directive
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Hajj 2026: NAHCON Commends Tinubu, Shettima for Cost Reduction Directive
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has commended President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for directing a downward review of the 2026 Hajj fare, describing the move as timely and people-centred.
The Commission said the decision reflects the administration’s empathy for the financial challenges facing intending pilgrims and demonstrates its responsiveness to public concerns.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by its Deputy Director of Information and Publication, Fatima Sanda Usara, NAHCON said the directive would bring huge relief to thousands of Muslims preparing for the pilgrimage.
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“The President’s instruction to review Hajj fares downward shows a government that listens and responds to the people’s concerns. It also reflects genuine empathy for the financial strain faced by many Muslims who dream of performing the sacred pilgrimage,” the statement read.
The Commission also lauded the Federal Government’s advice to intending pilgrims and State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to take advantage of the current appreciation of the naira by making early payments.
NAHCON noted that early remittances, as emphasised by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Alhaji Ibrahim Hadeja, after a meeting at the Presidential Villa, would help the country lock in the benefits of the stronger currency when paying for Hajj services.
“The directive and recommendation for early remittances show a deep understanding of both NAHCON’s operational challenges and the economic realities of our pilgrims,” the Commission said, adding that it further underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transparency and affordability in Hajj operations.
NAHCON assured that it would work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full implementation of the directive and smooth coordination of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The Commission urged intending pilgrims to make prompt payments once the new fare is announced, to enable their respective boards to remit early and take advantage of the favourable exchange rate.
