The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced an increase in the fare for the 2024 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, citing ongoing forex challenges in Nigeria.
Intending pilgrims now face a total payment of N6.8 million, following a hike of N1,918,032.91 from the initial fare of N4.9 million.
According to Farima Usara, the spokesperson for NAHCON, intending pilgrims have until March 28 to complete their payments for the spiritual journey.
The commission attributed the fare adjustment to the persistent forex crisis plaguing the nation for several months.
Usara explained that delays in remittances of Hajj fare contributed to the fare adjustment, resulting in two shifts in payment deadlines, with the final deadline set for February 12, 2024.
The depreciation of the Naira against the Dollar further complicated the situation, necessitating an increase in the Hajj cost.
In response to the challenge, NAHCON explored various options, including seeking intervention from state governments and affluent individuals on behalf of their pilgrims.
The Federal Government also stepped in to support Nigerian Muslim pilgrims, aligning with its policy focus of reducing the exchange rate.
With the recent appreciation of the Naira to N1,474.00 against the Dollar and after consultations with stakeholders, NAHCON resolved that each pilgrim must pay a balance of N1,918,032.91 in accordance with the current forex rate.
Intending pilgrims are urged to complete their payments by 11:59 pm on March 28, 2024, as NAHCON will close its system by March 29, with no further payments accommodated thereafter.
The commission emphasizes the importance of timely payment to ensure a smooth and organized pilgrimage experience for all participants.
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