Nigerian pilgrims gearing up for the annual Hajj pilgrimage to the Holy lands of Makkah and Medina may face a significant financial burden this year, with estimates suggesting expenditures surpassing N725.1 billion. The surge in costs comes as a result of a directive by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), requiring pilgrims to pay an additional N1.9 million balance to align with current foreign exchange rates. This directive must be fulfilled by the looming deadline of March 29, 2024.

According to a report by The PUNCH, the NAHCON explained in a statement signed by Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, that delays and non-remittances of fares pushed the commission beyond the deadline stipulated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Despite government interventions appealing for cost reductions, the additional financial burden remains unavoidable for pilgrims.

Pilgrims who had previously paid the N4.9 million sum announced by NAHCON in February will now need to contribute the additional N1.9 million, bringing the total to N6.8 million. Meanwhile, newly registering pilgrims are directed to pay as much as N8.5 million for the Hajj exercise. However, data released by the commission reveals that only 48,414 out of the allocated 95,000 pilgrim slots had paid the previous N4.8 million average price.

With the revised fares, early registrants will contribute approximately N329.2 billion to this year's Hajj expenses, while new registrants paying N8.5 million will add N395.9 billion, totaling N725.1 billion. This represents a considerable increase compared to previous years, with average Hajj fare prices reaching over 280% of 2022 prices.

The commission attributed the fare hike to challenges arising from non-timely remittances and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Despite efforts to adhere to the preparatory timeline outlined by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the commission faced obstacles due to currency harmonization and exchange rate shifts.

As the March 29 deadline approaches, concerns linger over the possibility of failing to fill the allocated 95,000 seats. With only four days left for payments and the option to withdraw funds, there is a looming possibility of a reduced number of pilgrims compared to previous years.

NAHCON emphasized the strict timeline for Hajj preparations and highlighted the unforeseen challenges posed by currency fluctuations. While efforts are underway to mitigate the financial impact on pilgrims, the upcoming Hajj journey is poised to be a costly endeavor for Nigerian pilgrims, underscoring the evolving dynamics of pilgrimage logistics and financial considerations.