Hajj fares may increase with new Saudi reforms – NAHCON

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced that the cost of performing hajj may rise due to new policies introduced by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. According to the Daily Trust, the fare for the 2027 hajj is projected between N7.5m and N7.8m, contingent on the destination. However, NAHCON Chairman, Ambassador Ismail Yusuf, stated during a recent media briefing that this will change within the next three years.

Saudi Arabia intends to discontinue the grade D package service, which has been instrumental in keeping hajj affordable for Nigerian pilgrims. This decision is part of broader reforms aimed at professionalizing hajj management and reducing government quotas from 2 percent to just 2 percent, with tour operators handling the remaining 98 percent of pilgrims.

The reform, initially slated for implementation this year, has been postponed due to diplomatic efforts by NAHCON. Ambassador Yusuf highlighted that 80 to 90 percent of Nigerian pilgrims belong to the lower socioeconomic class, often relying on the grade D package to afford the pilgrimage. Consequently, this segment primarily falls within the grade D category.

Saudi Arabia's decision to eliminate the grade D package is driven by their aspiration to ensure pilgrims have a superior experience. To achieve this, Saudi authorities are planning phased workforce training, focusing on professional qualifications in areas such as logistics, medical services, disaster management, and crowd control management.

NAHCON emphasizes that only certified professionals will be permitted to administer hajj packages in the future. Despite the anticipated changes, Ambassador Yusuf reassured Nigerian pilgrims that NAHCON will continue to uphold its responsibility for ensuring the welfare of pilgrims. Additionally, the commission is collaborating with the state pilgrims welfare board to transition into a tour operator structure that aligns with the forthcoming reforms.