BREAKING: Tinubu Orders Reduction in 2026 Hajj Fare
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate downward review of the 2026 Hajj fare to reflect the recent appreciation of the naira against the dollar.
Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this on Monday during a meeting with the management and board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Shettima directed the commission to come up with a revised and affordable fare within two days, saying the adjustment was necessary to ensure intending pilgrims benefit from the government’s ongoing economic reforms.
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He also urged closer coordination between federal and state Hajj officials, including governors, to streamline the new rates and ensure timely remittances to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for a hitch-free exercise.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, explained that the session was aimed at finalising arrangements for the 2026 Hajj and reviewing the cost structure.
He noted that with the steady improvement of the naira, it was only fair that the gains reflect in the cost paid by pilgrims.
“The Vice President felt that if pilgrims paid about ₦8.5 million to ₦8.6 million last year when the exchange rate was unfavourable, then the current appreciation should bring down the cost,” Hadeija said.
“The commissions and officials have been asked to immediately review the figures using a more realistic rate. If all goes as planned, the reduction will be quite significant,” he added.
The Secretary of NAHCON, Dr Mustapha Mohammad, described the directive as a welcome development that would encourage more Muslim faithful to participate in next year’s pilgrimage.
“The lower the Hajj fare, the better for our people. We will work day and night to ensure the cost is reduced to the barest minimum and affordable for every Muslim intending to perform this important religious duty,” he said.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Deputy Chairman of the Forum of State Pilgrims Boards, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, commended the President and Vice President for their intervention.
“We are very happy with the directive because it will definitely reduce the burden on intending pilgrims. It shows that the government is listening and responsive,” he said.
