The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has extended the deadline for 2025 Hajj registration to February 10, 2025, following numerous appeals from intending pilgrims who were unable to meet the original deadline of January 31, 2025.
This announcement was made by the Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Saleh Usman, during a Zoom meeting with key stakeholders on Tuesday night. Prof. Usman emphasized the importance of prompt fund transfers to secure accommodation for Nigerian pilgrims, noting that payments must be made in time for Saudi Arabia’s contract signing deadline on February 14, 2025.
In a statement signed by Fatima Usara, NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Information and Publication, Prof. Usman urged the Executive Secretaries of State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards to cooperate with the commission to ensure timely financial transactions. The chairman emphasized that all payments must reach the designated International Bank Account Number (IBAN) in Saudi Arabia before February 14 to be recognized on the e-track registration portal, Nusuk Masar.
“The time required for international transfers makes early remittance crucial,” Usman said. He further noted that pilgrims who can afford the Hajj fare—excluding the $5,000 Basic Travel Allowance—should proceed with payments while arranging the allowance separately.
NAHCON’s Commissioner of Operations, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, highlighted that some pilgrims had been unable to complete their payments due to a shortfall of ₦200,000, despite having paid the required fare.
The extension was welcomed by Malam Idris Almakura, the Executive Secretary and Chairman of the Forum of States, who urged immediate remittance of available funds to avoid delays. Alhaji Faruku Yaro, Executive Secretary of Kebbi State, cautioned that any delay in payments could lead to contract cancellations, as seen in previous years, and encouraged pilgrims to take advantage of favorable foreign exchange rates.
A critical issue discussed during the meeting was the proposal from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to disburse Basic Travel Allowances via credit cards. Many stakeholders opposed this suggestion, citing potential challenges for pilgrims, and discussions on the matter are expected to continue.
NAHCON also plans to hold regular Zoom meetings until all contracts are finalized, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for Nigerian pilgrims preparing for the 2025 Hajj.
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