The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has approached the Presidency to avert a potential rise in 2026 Hajj fares following the sharp increase in aviation fuel prices. When airlift contracts were signed with Max Air, Air Peace, Umza Air Services, and FlyNas, Jet A1 was selling at N1,000 per litre, but prices have since risen to as high as N3,000 per litre. NAHCON spokesperson Fatima Sanda Usara said the Presidency has requested details of fuel quantities needed by each airline. The NAHCON Chairman met with the President's Economic Adviser and officials from the Aviation and Petroleum Ministries on Monday.
Key Points
- Nigerian intending pilgrims face uncertainty over potential additional Hajj costs.
- Airlines contracted for airlift may operate at a loss without government intervention.
- Private tour operators have already paid for flights and secured tickets, shielding their pilgrims.
- State board pilgrims may be more vulnerable to fare increases if government does not act.
- The removal of Hajj subsidies in Nigeria complicates emergency financial support.
Watch whether the Federal Government intervenes to cover the fuel price difference and if Hajj operations proceed without fare hikes or disruptions.
Sources: Nigerian Tribune
