NAHCON Boss Meets Katsina Governor, Pushes for Early 2026 Hajj Payments, Promises Easier Exercise
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has expressed concern over the late payment of 2026 Hajj fares by intending pilgrims, warning that delays could affect accommodation arrangements in Mecca and Madina.
Prof. Usman spoke to journalists on Wednesday in Katsina after a courtesy visit to Governor Dikko Radda, where discussions centered on easing the forthcoming Hajj exercise.
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He revealed that the commission is working to reduce challenges faced by pilgrims, including high fares and difficulties with Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) payments, and hinted that the 2026 Hajj fare might be lower than the previous year—though still subject to confirmation.
“As leaders, we urge scholars, journalists, and stakeholders to sensitize people on the importance of early registration for the Hajj exercise. Late payment makes it difficult for the commission to secure good accommodation for pilgrims,” he said.
The NAHCON chairman, who also sought Radda’s support as Chairman of the North-West Governors’ Forum, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for what he described as unprecedented attention to pilgrims’ welfare.
Governor Radda, in response, assured NAHCON of his full support in collaboration with other northern governors and immediately directed the Commissioner of Religious Affairs to launch a sensitization campaign through media outlets.
