President Tinubu Orders Immediate Reduction of 2026 Hajj Fares

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to review and reduce the 2026 Hajj fares within the next two days.

The directive was conveyed by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a meeting with NAHCON’s management and board members at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.

The Vice President emphasized the need for close collaboration between national and state Hajj officials, including state governors, to agree on new, more affordable fares. He urged all stakeholders to ensure prompt payments and timely remittances to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to guarantee a smooth and successful pilgrimage.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, explained that the move is part of efforts to make the sacred journey more accessible to Nigerian Muslims.

“The aim is to ease the financial burden on intending pilgrims,” Senator Hadeija stated. “With the naira appreciating as a result of the government’s economic reforms, it is only fair that the reduced exchange rates reflect in the new Hajj fares. We expect a significant reduction compared to last year’s ₦8.5 million to ₦8.6 million rate.”

The Secretary of NAHCON, Dr. Mustapha Mohammad, welcomed the directive, describing it as a relief for Muslim faithful aspiring to participate in the holy pilgrimage.

“The lower the fare, the more inclusive and affordable the Hajj becomes,” Dr. Mohammad said. “As instructed by the Vice President, we will work tirelessly to ensure that the revised rates are within reach for the average Nigerian Muslim.”

Also reacting, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Deputy Chairman of the Forum of Chief Executives of the 36 State and FCT Pilgrims’ Boards, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, praised the President’s intervention.

“We are happy with the President’s concern for the Muslim community,” Yaro said. “This move will encourage more faithful to fulfill this important pillar of Islam.”