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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Preparation for the 2024 Hajj has continued to witness hiccups as the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that intending pilgrims will pay an additional N1,918,032.91, due to the changes in foreign exchange rate.
So far, 48,414 intending pilgrims have registered to participate in the 2024 Hajj with Kaduna and Niger States leading with 4,656 and 3,200 intending pilgrims, respectively.
NAHCON confirmed that the intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj had already paid the fixed fare of about N4.9 million, depending on the departure zone as approved by the government before the recent upward review in the cost of the exercise.
NAHCON, thus asked the intending pilgrims to make the payment by 11:59 pm on 28th March 2024, stressing that it would shut down its system by 29th March, and no other payment would be accommodated thereafter.
Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, in a statement, appreciated the understanding and concern that have been demonstrated, publicly and privately, over the 2024 Hajj fare dilemma. “This show of support gives the Commission hope that stakeholders would leave no stone unturned for the success of the forthcoming Hajj”.
She explained that new registrations for the 2024 Hajj will be N8,225, 464.74, for pilgrims from the Adamawa/Borno axis. From other northern zones, fresh depositors would pay N8, 254, 464.74, whereas fresh payments from the southern zones would attract N8, 454, 464.74 as Hajj fare, stressing that all categories are to pay within the same deadline.
She said that while the Commission regrets the short notice, it has become inevitable due to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s stern warning to Nigeria regarding delay in adhering to the Hajj arrangement framework. “NAHCON had pleaded for an extension which had been reluctantly granted and now the Ministry’s patience is wearing thin.
“As for those who wish to withdraw their registration for the 2024 Hajj, they are advised to formally request for refund from their states which will be treated with all seriousness. The next four days are crucial for stakeholders, especially those willing to intervene in support of their pilgrims, to take necessary actions and ensure smooth Hajj arrangements.”
She maintained that NAHCON remains committed to facilitating the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Muslims and seeks cooperation from all parties involved.
