NAHCON Commends Tinubu, Shettima for Directive to Reduce 2026 Hajj Costs

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has lauded President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their directive aimed at lowering the cost of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

Vice President Shettima, during a meeting with NAHCON’s board and management on Monday, instructed the commission to review and reduce Hajj fares within two days, acting on the President’s directive.

Earlier, NAHCON had announced that fares for Northern pilgrims would be N8.2 million, while Southern pilgrims were expected to pay N8.5 million. In a statement on Tuesday, NAHCON’s Deputy Director of Information and Publications, Fatima Sanda Usara, described the directive as a demonstration of a government attentive to the financial challenges of Nigerian Muslims aspiring to undertake the pilgrimage.

The commission also commended the government for encouraging early remittances to take advantage of the recent Naira appreciation, as highlighted by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Alhaji Ibrahim Hadeja. This proactive measure aims to optimise currency benefits and support NAHCON’s operational efficiency.

“President Tinubu’s directive reflects a commitment to making Hajj management more affordable, transparent, and well-coordinated,” Usara said.

NAHCON affirmed its intention to collaborate closely with all stakeholders to implement the directive effectively, ensuring a smooth and fulfilling 2026 Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. The commission urged intending pilgrims to expedite payments, with revised fare details to be announced shortly, enabling State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards to make early remittances.