n the face of hunger and high cost of living in the country, Nigerians are projected to allocate more than N725.1 billion for the 2024 annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah and Medina.
This comes after the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria instructed pilgrims to settle an additional N1.9 million balance, based on current foreign exchange rates, before the March 29, 2024 deadline.
In a statement issued by the Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, NAHCON, as reported by Punch, clarified that delays and non-payment of fares exceeded the deadline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Despite government appeals for cost reduction, the additional payment of N1.9 million is required from those who previously paid the N4.9 million announced in February. New registrants are directed to pay N8.5 million for the pilgrimage.
Among the previously registered pilgrims, totaling 48,414 individuals from all states, including the FCT and the Armed Forces, only a portion had paid the initial N4.8 million. With the added expenses, early registrants will contribute approximately N329.2 billion, while new registrants are expected to contribute N395.98 billion, totaling N725.2 billion.
Comparatively, in 2022, average Hajj fares stood at N2.4 million, accommodating 43,000 pilgrims. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, average prices rose to about N2.9 million in 2023, filling all 95,000 allocated seats.
However, the 2024 fares, exceeding 280% of 2022 prices, may hinder seat allocation, potentially reducing the final number of pilgrims. With only four days left until the payment deadline, withdrawals may further decrease the turnout.
The commission highlighted the accelerated timeline set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for 2024 preparations, underscoring the need for timely payments.
“NAHCON endeavored to adhere to the schedule outlined by the ministry. However, non-to-late remittances of Hajj fare by those concerned necessitated adjustments, resulting in two date shifts with the final being the 12th of February 2024.
“Recall that as of 31st December 2023, Naira was still at N897:00 to a Dollar at the banks. These shifts unfortunately pushed the Hajj fare collection deadline to fall after harmonization of foreign exchange rates, presenting a new and significant challenge.”