With Naira averaging N1,600: USD1, Hajj fares may exceed N10million in 2024
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has announced that there will be no government subsidies or concessionary rates for the upcoming 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
This decision was communicated by NAHCON’s Commissioner for Operations, Anofi Elegushi, during a recent virtual meeting with Private Tour Operators.
In the announcement, it was confirmed that pilgrims, whether registered through state Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards or private operators, will not benefit from any favorable exchange rates for fare payments.
As a result, pilgrims may face costs exceeding N10 million, based on the current exchange rate of over N1,600 to $1, with the standard fare estimated at around $6,000.
While the Federal Government had previously offered a substantial subsidy of N90 billion for the 2024 Hajj, no such financial support will be available for 2025.
As NAHCON prepares for the next pilgrimage, initial deposit amounts for intending pilgrims have already been set by several states, including the Federal Capital Territory, at N8.4 million.
Further discussions revealed that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has limited the number of private companies involved in the pilgrimage to ten, each required to register a minimum of 2,000 pilgrims for visa approval.
Additionally, it was announced that Nigerian pilgrims who attended the 2023 Hajj will each receive a refund of SR150. However, NAHCON is still awaiting further information regarding refunds for the 2022 Hajj.
The Commission clarified that it received only N2.75 billion from 110 companies for the 2024 Hajj registration, contradicting claims of a larger debt owed to the Private Tour Operators.
Refunds have already been processed for some companies, with remaining funds yet to be allocated.
