NAHCON redefined 2025 Hajj operations – Usman
By Deji Abdulwahab
National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says in spite of economic and logistical challenges, it succeeded in redefining the 2025 Hajj operations in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
The Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, said this while briefing stakeholders on the Commission’s handling of the 2025 Hajj exercise in Abuja on Monday.
The NAHCON boss, who outlined a series of landmark achievements recorded under the administration of Tinubu, described the 2025 Hajj exercise as “a turning point for Nigerian pilgrims”.
He said that the progress made so far was a reflection of the President’s visionary leadership and empathy for Nigerian pilgrims.
Usman added that Tinubu’s timely interventions, deep respect for religious institutions, and commitment to easing the burden on citizens remained the driving force behind NAHCON’s achievements
The NAHCON CEO revealed how the Commission’s contract amendment with the service providers during the just concluded 2025 Hajj exercise prevented waste of fund and reduction of Hajj fare for pilgrims.
“It is to be noted that in an attempt to reduce the 2025 Hajj fare, NAHCON amended its contract with Mashariq AL-Dhahabia to align services with the actual number of registered Pilgrims (52,544), down from the initial projection of 95,000.
“This proactive adjustment prevented waste of fund as well as the reduction of Hajj fare for pilgrims,” he said
According to him, Nigerian pilgrims and NAHCON have received unprecedented support under the present administration.
He said the support led to record-breaking success that has restored confidence in the system and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.
“One of the most significant interventions was President Tinubu’s approval of a N90 billion subsidy for the 2024 Hajj exercise to cushion the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations on pilgrims.
“In addition, the President approved N24 billion to settle outstanding payments to 2023 Hajj airlines, rescuing local carriers from imminent collapse,” he said
He said that the Federal Government also intervened in negotiations with airlines to accept payments in local currency, thereby shielding pilgrims from the shocks of Forex volatility.
“Another relief for pilgrims came with the suspension of the Central Bank’s credit card policy for Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) payments, which could have disadvantaged many Nigerians due to low awareness and inadequate sensitisation.
“This decision, was another example of the government’s empathy and timely intervention in protecting the interest of citizens,” Usman said.
According to him, the administration has also expanded the Hajj Savings Scheme by partnering with more banks, allowing intending Pilgrims, especially youth and low-income earners to gradually save towards the sacred journey.
He described this as a legacy tool that would serve generations to come by instilling financial planning and easing the burden of preparation.
Usman equally revealed that, in line with the anti-corruption stance of the present administration, NAHCON refunded N5.3 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for services not provided during the 2023 Hajj.
According to him, the act of transparency restored confidence, promoted accountability, and underscored the Commission’s commitment to efficient and honest service delivery.
“Through strategic engagement, NAHCON secured VIP Tent ‘A+’ accommodation, ensuring greater comfort for high-level officials and reducing stress during the exercise.
“Pilgrims’ welfare also received a boost, with 98 per cent of medical supplies provided by the Federal Government.
“Health workers were fully mobilised to deliver round-the-clock care, ensuring the well-being of Nigerian pilgrims throughout the exercise.
“Cost reductions were further achieved across several service components, with pilgrims benefiting from 720 SAR reduction for Mashair services, 200 SAR savings on Madinah accommodation, 303 SAR reduction in transport fares.
”Airfare reductions of $116 for the North-Central/North-West, $149 for the North-East, and $138 for the South,” the NAHCON chairman added.
Usman assured NAHCON’s commitment to sustaining and improving on the gains recorded, so that every Nigerian pilgrim will continue to embark on Hajj with pride, dignity, and fulfilment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi
