The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced plans to stop using the US dollar for Hajj-related payments.
This was disclosed by the Commission’s Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Argungu at his palace.
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This move aims to reduce the high cost of Hajj fares, making the pilgrimage more affordable for Nigerians.
According to NAHCON Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, the use of dollars for essential Hajj activities like flights has contributed significantly to the high cost of Hajj.
He emphasized that eliminating dollar payments could lead to a substantial reduction in Hajj fares for the 2025 Hajj exercise.
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Interestingly, Umrah pilgrims already pay in Naira, but international airlines and service providers still demand dollars for Hajj operations.
NAHCON is urging traditional and religious leaders to support the transition to Naira payments, engaging service providers and stakeholders in the process.
The Federal Government has been supportive, particularly with the Hajj subsidy.
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However, late payments of Hajj fares have resulted in Nigeria failing to meet its allocated quota of pilgrims.
By addressing these issues, NAHCON hopes to make the Hajj more accessible and affordable for Nigerians