Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof Abdullahi Saleh Usman,
has called on the Federal Government to direct the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to waive the 2% charge imposed on pilgrims’ funds.
Usman said this would significantly reduce Hajj fares and alleviate the financial burdens of Nigerian pilgrims, who are already struggling with the country’s economic challenges.
NAHCON boss, who spoke in Abuja on Saturday, also reiterated his commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
According to him, reducing the cost of Hajj has been one of his top priorities since assuming office, with the ultimate aim of making the pilgrimage more affordable for Muslims across the country.
To achieve this goal, Usman has engaged key Hajj service providers, including airliners, Masha’ir service providers, accommodation providers, and transportation companies.
These negotiations have yielded significant reductions in various service costs, including:
– *Masha’ir Services*: A reduction of over 700 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim, from 4,770 Saudi Riyals last year.
– *Accommodation in Madinah*: A reduction of 200 Riyals per pilgrim, from 5,000 Riyals last year.
– *Transportation*: A reduction of 130 Riyals per pilgrim, from 1,300 Riyals last year.
– *Airfare*: A reduction of $399 per pilgrim, despite varying airfare costs across regions due to Nigeria’s geographical diversity.²
The NAHCON boss expressed optimism that further adjustments will be made, leading to even more affordable fares.
Usman further appealed to the government to consider selling dollars to NAHCON at the official government exchange rate, which would further lower Hajj fares.
Usman also appealed to State Governors to support their respective State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies by providing loans to settle payments with NAHCON before the final payment deadline set by Saudi authorities.
The NAHCON Chairman emphasized the importance of timely payment and proper preparation for a successful Hajj pilgrimage, urging intending pilgrims to complete their payments promptly while State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies are to intensify public enlightenment campaigns.