The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced a major reduction in the cost of next year’s Hajj pilgrimage, bringing relief to thousands of Muslims across the country who had worried about the rising expense of performing the sacred journey to Makkah.
The move followed a call by Vice President Kashim Shettima for a review of the fares to ease the burden on intending pilgrims.
NAHCON described the gesture as a reflection of “genuine empathy towards the financial struggles of many Nigerians seeking to fulfil their spiritual obligation.”
According to the commission’s statement issued on Monday, the new fare structure cuts between ₦748,000 and ₦793,000 from the initial 2025 figures, depending on each pilgrim’s departure zone.
Southern Pilgrims Get Biggest Relief
Pilgrims from Nigeria’s southern states will enjoy the biggest reduction, saving about ₦792,943 each. The revised cost now stands at ₦7,991,141 — a drop from ₦8,784,085 previously approved for the zone.
Those in the northern region will pay ₦7,696,770, following a ₦760,915 cut, while pilgrims from the Borno–Adamawa zone — traditionally the least expensive — will now pay ₦7,579,020 after a ₦748,104 reduction.
“This downward review underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting Nigerian Muslims and ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey of faith,” the statement added.
The commission’s announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about the broader economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu and efforts to stabilize the naira, which directly affects Hajj costs pegged to the Saudi riyal and U.S. dollar exchange rates.
Deadline Set for 2026 Hajj Payments
NAHCON further directed all intending pilgrims to complete their payments by 5 December 2025, describing the date as “critical for finalizing arrangements and securing flight slots for the 2026 exercise.”
It said the reduction would make the pilgrimage more accessible and rekindle hope for those who had lost faith in their ability to afford it.
“We are confident this gesture will restore many dreams and strengthen the spirit of unity among Nigerian Muslims,” the statement concluded.
But the price slash, though commendable, may still be beyond the reach of lower-income worshippers. So, will the government consider additional subsidies or foreign exchange support to further ease the journey for poorer pilgrims?
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