The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has restated its unwavering dedication to ensuring a seamless and efficient transportation process for Nigerian pilgrims embarking on the Hajj journey to Saudi Arabia in 2023. This reassurance comes in response to a recent report suggesting that pilgrims for this year’s Hajj have been instructed to pay an additional fee of $100.
In a statement issued by Alhaji Mousa Ubandawaki, the Deputy Director of Information and Publications at NAHCON, the commission firmly stated that it would never partake in any activities that exploit the pilgrims. Ubandawaki further clarified that, due to the closure of Sudanese airspace and in consultation with the airliners, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, an additional fare of $250 was imposed to address the challenges faced.
“The Commission solicited the Federal Government to compassionately agree to waive the remaining 35% of aviation charges in favour of Airlines which would translate to $55 (fifty-five dollars). This would further alleviate the additional cost of the airfare on the Nigerian pilgrims. The Government had earlier waived 65% of the aviation charges to bring down the cost of Hajj. With this development, the $250 (two hundred and fifty dollars) addition negotiated with the airlines will be reduced by $55(fifty-five dollars).
“The liability of the remaining $195 will be borne by the 75,000 pilgrims which is calculated at $117 per pilgrim.
However, NAHCON assured the public that it has taken proactive measures to resolve the issues at hand and manage the situation effectively. The commission remains committed to safeguarding the interests and well-being of Nigerian pilgrims, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory Hajj experience.
“To offset the $117 without causing additional financial obligations on the Pilgrims, the Commission resolved to reduce the Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) for 2023 Hajj Pilgrims to the sum of $700 (Seven Hundred Dollars) against Eight Hundred Dollars ($800.00) provided in the Hajj package already paid by the pilgrims.
