The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has officially released the approved fare for the 2026 Hajj exercise, following comprehensive consultations with key stakeholders and the final endorsement from the Federal Government. This announcement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s preparations for the annual spiritual journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to NAHCON, the new Hajj fare structure was meticulously arrived at after deliberations with representatives from the Forum of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, relevant government agencies, and other critical players in the Hajj industry. The commission emphasized that the decision-making process was guided by a commitment to transparency, economic realities, and the overall welfare of intending pilgrims across the country.
A senior official of the commission, who spoke under condition of anonymity ahead of the formal statement, disclosed that the fare reflects current market dynamics, including exchange rates, aviation fuel costs, accommodation in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, and other logistic components required for a successful Hajj operation. The official noted that “every element of the fare was scrutinized to ensure affordability without compromising the quality of services to be rendered.”
This announcement comes at a time when global economic pressures and fluctuations in foreign exchange have made international travel significantly more expensive. The commission acknowledged these challenges and revealed that it worked closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other financial institutions to secure a stable exchange rate for the payment of critical services in Saudi Arabia.
While the final fare may vary slightly from one state to another due to differing administrative charges, transportation logistics, and local arrangements, NAHCON stressed that all states are expected to operate within the framework provided by the commission. Pilgrims are advised to channel payments only through officially recognized state pilgrims boards or authorized private tour operators to avoid fraud and exploitation.
The chairman of NAHCON, in his upcoming press briefing, is expected to shed more light on the fare components, expected dates for payment, and timelines for biometric registration and visa processing. He is also likely to address the commission’s commitment to digital transformation in Hajj operations, as well as ongoing efforts to enhance pilgrims’ welfare and safety during the holy exercise.
As Nigeria continues to play a significant role in the global Hajj community—being among the top countries in terms of pilgrim population—this development signals the beginning of what is expected to be a well-coordinated and spiritually fulfilling 2026 Hajj experience for Nigerian Muslims.
