Abuja: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced significant strides in redefining the 2025 Hajj operations, aligning them with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, despite facing economic and logistical challenges. This was disclosed by the Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, during a briefing with stakeholders on the Commission’s handling of the 2025 Hajj exercise in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Prof. Usman highlighted a series of landmark achievements under President Tinubu’s administration, describing the 2025 Hajj exercise as a pivotal moment for Nigerian pilgrims. He credited the progress to the President’s visionary leadership and empathy for the pilgrims, emphasizing that Tinubu’s timely interventions and respect for religious institutions were crucial in driving NAHCON’s accomplishments.
The NAHCON CEO detailed how the Commission’s contract amendment with service providers during the 2025 Hajj exercise effectively reduced costs and prevented financial waste. Notably, NAHCON adjusted its agreement with Mashariq AL-Dhahabia to reflect the actual number of registered pilgrims, which was 52,544, instead of the initially projected 95,000, thereby reducing the Hajj fare for pilgrims.
Usman stated that Nigerian pilgrims and NAHCON have received unprecedented support from the current administration, leading to record-breaking success, restoring confidence in the system, and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to transparency and efficiency. President Tinubu’s approval of a N90 billion subsidy for the 2024 Hajj was highlighted as a significant intervention to mitigate the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.
Furthermore, the Federal Government’s negotiation with airlines to accept payments in local currency and the suspension of the Central Bank’s credit card policy for Basic Travel Allowance payments were praised as timely measures that shielded pilgrims from financial shocks.
Usman also mentioned the expansion of the Hajj Savings Scheme through partnerships with banks, enabling pilgrims, particularly youth and low-income earners, to save gradually for the sacred journey. This initiative is seen as a legacy tool to instill financial planning and ease preparation burdens for future generations.
In adherence to the government’s anti-corruption stance, NAHCON refunded N5.3 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for services not provided during the 2023 Hajj. This act of transparency was said to restore confidence and promote accountability within the Commission.
Strategic accommodations like the VIP Tent ‘A+’ and comprehensive medical support, including 98 percent of medical supplies provided by the Federal Government, were also highlighted. These measures ensured the well-being and comfort of Nigerian pilgrims throughout the exercise. Additionally, cost reductions in service components and airfare were achieved, benefiting pilgrims significantly.
Prof. Usman assured that NAHCON remains committed to sustaining and enhancing the achievements, ensuring that Nigerian pilgrims continue to embark on Hajj with pride, dignity, and fulfillment.
