President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered an immediate review of the 2026 Hajj fare to reflect the naira’s recent appreciation against the dollar.
Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed the directive on Monday during a meeting with the management of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He gave the commission two days to present a revised and affordable fare structure.
In a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said the review was necessary to ensure that Nigerian pilgrims benefit from the gains of ongoing economic reforms and the improved value of the naira.
He urged NAHCON to collaborate with state governments and relevant agencies to harmonise the revised fares and ensure smooth coordination of the 2026 pilgrimage, while emphasising the need for prompt remittances to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, said the meeting was convened to finalise preparations for the 2026 Hajj and review the cost structure in light of the stronger exchange rate.
“Last year, pilgrims paid around N8.5 million due to a weaker exchange rate. With the steady appreciation of the naira, the new fare must reflect that improvement,” Hadeija stated.
NAHCON Secretary, Dr. Mustapha Mohammad, welcomed the directive, describing it as a relief for intending pilgrims. He pledged the commission’s commitment to cutting costs “to the barest minimum.”
Similarly, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, Chairman of the Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, commended the President and Vice President for their intervention, saying it would make the spiritual journey more accessible to Nigerian Muslims.
