By Haroon Ishola Balogun
In a significant shift aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Muslims, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mashariq Al-Dhahabia Company, effectively ending its longstanding relationship with Ithra Al Khair. This decision, made by NAHCON Chairman Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman on January 17, marks a pivotal moment in the commission’s efforts to improve service delivery for the upcoming 2025 Hajj.
The transition to Mashariq Al-Dhahabia comes as part of NAHCON’s broader strategy to ensure that the services provided to pilgrims meet modern standards and expectations. Professor Usman emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it reflects NAHCON’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims. He urged the new service provider and the Private Tour Operators (PTOs) to collaborate closely in delivering a seamless pilgrimage experience.
In tandem with this restructuring, NAHCON has also announced the fare for the 2025 Hajj season, setting it at N8.7 million for intending pilgrims from Southern states, N8.3 million for those from Borno and Adamawa, and N8.4 million for Northern zone pilgrims. This fare structure, disclosed by Professor Usman in a statement on January 22, is a result of extensive consultations with stakeholders and aims to keep costs manageable, especially in light of previous years’ fare increases.
The payment deadline for the Hajj fare is set for January 31, 2025, in accordance with Saudi directives to facilitate the timely issuance of visas, which is scheduled to begin in February. Professor Usman highlighted that the fare was carefully determined to align with previous years, despite speculations that it could reach N10 million without government subsidies.
This proactive approach is expected to alleviate concerns among prospective pilgrims, especially those who benefited from the Federal Government’s N90 billion Hajj intervention last year, where fares were significantly lower.
The recent changes reflect NAHCON’s ongoing commitment to transparency and inclusivity in its operations. The Chairman acknowledged the support from the Presidency and the Forum of Executive Secretaries of State Pilgrims Welfare Boards, Agencies, and Commissions in reaching a consensus on the fare. He urged prospective pilgrims to adhere to the timelines and Saudi guidelines to avoid last-minute inconveniences.
Furthermore, the NAHCON leadership has granted Private Tour Operators the autonomy to select their preferred service providers, a move welcomed by industry stakeholders. During the MoU signing ceremony, Malam Ikrimah Muhammad, representing the PTOs, expressed gratitude for this opportunity, promising to deliver exceptional services to their pilgrims. This collaborative spirit aims to foster a sense of partnership among all parties involved in Hajj preparations.
As part of the preparations, NAHCON has also conducted a two-day inspection of accommodation, kitchen, and clinic facilities in Madinah, ensuring that the service providers meet the necessary standards for the upcoming pilgrimage.
As a result, the recent developments within NAHCON signal a determined effort to enhance the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. By restructuring service agreements and maintaining a competitive fare, the commission aims to ensure that the spiritual journey remains accessible and rewarding for all participants. The leadership of Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman continues to inspire confidence among stakeholders, paving the way for a successful Hajj season in 2025.
