Hajj Sets 2024 Pilgrimage Fares Amidst Exchange Rate Instability

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has set up the 2024 pilgrimage fares for interested parties due to the unstable exchange rate situation plaguing the nation.

The finalized fare prices for the upcoming 2024 Hajj pilgrimage exercise, following earlier announcements in October regarding an initial fare deposit of N4.5 million. 

The dollar rate had influenced the initial amount, and that has affected the final cost of the Hajj pilgrimage, including accommodation, airline fares, feeding, and other necessities.

The NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara disclosed this in a statement released on Saturday on the efforts to maintain the fares at N4.5 million. 

Usara explained that despite negotiations by NAHCON Chairman, Jalal Arabi, with service providers in Saudi Arabia, the fluctuating currency situation led to the revisions, preventing the fares from reaching up to N6 million.

Usara stated, "Regrettably, the recent instability in the dollar exchange rate compelled a necessary adjustment despite commendable efforts by NAHCON Chairman, Jalal Ahmad Arabi to maintain the cost of the year’s Hajj at the said rate."

Consequently, the commission has fixed the fares for intending pilgrims as follows: N4,899,000 for the Southern center, N4,699,000 for the Northern center, and N4,679,000 for pilgrims from Yola and Maiduguri centers for the 2024 Hajj exercise.

Intending pilgrims have been advised to pay or settle their Hajj fares by Monday, February 12, 2024, to facilitate the timely transfer of funds before the approaching deadline of February 25.

Arabi emphasized that the adjustment was necessary, and the Commission, facing a tight deadline, had limited time to explore further options to remain within the range of N4.5 million.

NAHCON assured the public of its commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj pilgrimage despite challenges posed by foreign exchange factors. The Commission expressed appreciation for the understanding and cooperation of the Nigerian Muslim community during these times.