The Federal Government has suspended subsidies for Hajj payments, increasing costs for Muslims traveling to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) confirmed this development.
NAHCON spokesperson, Fatima Sanda Usara, stated that there will be no concessionary exchange rate for Hajj fare payments. This subsidy allowed pilgrims to purchase dollars at a lower rate from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
With the current exchange rate (₦1,650/$), pilgrims may pay nearly ₦10 million (approximately $6,000). State Pilgrims Welfare Boards have requested initial deposits of ₦8.5 million pending the official fare announcement.
NAHCON aims to convey 95,000 pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj. The fare announcement delay is due to ongoing data collection on pilgrim costs.
The subsidy removal has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters argue it prioritizes national development, while critics claim it burdens pilgrims economically.
Stakeholders await NAHCON’s official fare announcement and guidance.
The development raises questions about government support for religious activities and economic implications.
