NAHCON Moves To Reduce Hajj Fares, Negotiates With CBN, Stakeholders

By Ayodele Oni

The National Hajj Commission, (NAHCON) has revealed that four Airlines have been shortlisted to airlift pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj.

NAHCON Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate & Licensing, Panofi Elegushi, while providing detailed updates on operational preparations for the 2025 Hajj exercise, emphasized that while significant progress has been made in reducing costs for offshore services in Saudi Arabia, domestic charges remain a challenge.

“The major concern now is securing waivers from relevant agencies, particularly in the aviation sector. If these agencies grant us a waiver, it will have a direct impact on airfare and will significantly reduce the overall cost for pilgrims.”

The Commissioner, speaking in an interview with members of Nigerian Hajj Media Support Team, (NHMST), in Abuja  stated that following a rigorous screening process, four airlines have been shortlisted for the 2025 Hajj operations: Flynas, Max Air, Air Peace, and OMSA.

“A total of 11 airlines initially applied, but after rigorous screening, these four were deemed capable of delivering quality services.”

Addressing payment challenges, Elegushi urged state governments to consider advancing funds on behalf of their pilgrims.

“We appeal to state governments to frontload payments for their pilgrims, which will later be deducted during the reconciliation process. This will ensure that we meet the deadline without putting pressure on individual pilgrims.”

The Commissioner emphasized the critical need for enhanced public awareness regarding drug-related offences, noting ongoing concerns about Nigerian pilgrims being apprehended with prohibited substances in Saudi Arabia, often unknowingly.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof Abdullahi Usman, appealed to the Central Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), to waive the two percent charge imposed on pilgrims’ funds.

Prof. Usman emphasized that the removal of the two percent charge would significantly reduce Hajj fares for Nigerian intending pilgrims.

The NAHCON’s boss reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the Commission fulfills its mandate of enhancing the welfare of the Nigerian pilgrims.

He stated that one of his major priorities, since assuming office, was to reduce the cost of Hajj, making it more affordable for Muslims across the country.

“I am confident that lowering Hajj fares will bring relief to our pilgrims, leaders, and the entire Muslim Ummah.”

To achieve this goal, Saleh explained that he had engaged key Hajj service providers, including airliners, Masha’ir service providers, accommodation providers, and transportation companies, in collaboration with the Forum of State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies.

He highlighted that the negotiations had already yielded significant reductions in various Hajj service components.

He explained that in Masha’ir Services: Last year, pilgrims were charged 4,770 Saudi Riyals, but following discussions, NAHCON secured a reduction of over 700 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim.

Accommodation in Madinah, according to him, the cost per bed space was 5,000 Riyals last year, but a reduction of 200 Riyals per pilgrim has been achieved.

“Transportation: Last year’s transportation cost stood at 1,300 Riyals per pilgrim, but this year, NAHCON successfully negotiated a 130 Riyal reduction per pilgrim.

“Airfare: Given Nigeria’s geographical diversity, airfare costs vary across regions. However, under Prof Saleh’s leadership, NAHCON was able to secure a $399 reduction per pilgrim.

“These reductions have significantly impacted the overall Hajj fare, and we are still expecting further adjustments.”

While noting that NAHCON is not requesting government subsidies, Saleh appealed to authorities to consider selling dollars to the Commission at the official government exchange rate.

He stated that this measure, if approved, would further lower Hajj fares.

On the deadline for Hajj fare payments, the NAHCON Chairman clarified that the Commission has no control over the deadline but can only appeal to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj for an extension if necessary.

He urged intending pilgrims to complete their payments promptly to avoid any last-minute issues.

Saleh also called on State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies and stakeholders to intensify public enlightenment campaigns, ensuring that intending pilgrims understand the importance of timely payment and proper preparation for a successful Hajj pilgrimage