Amidst the anticipation and preparations for this year's Hajj pilgrimage, a cloud of uncertainty looms over many intending pilgrims in Nigeria following the recent decision by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to increase the 2024 Hajj fare by a staggering N1.9 million. The announcement, which shocked many, has sparked widespread calls for refunds among aspiring pilgrims who now find themselves grappling with financial strain and logistical challenges.
According to reports from Daily Trust, intending pilgrims across the country have begun flocking to state Muslim pilgrims' welfare boards, demanding refunds for their deposits in light of the exorbitant fare hike. Many voiced their concerns and frustrations, expressing their inability to afford the additional N1.9 million required to meet the new Hajj fare set by NAHCON.
In Kano, one of Nigeria's prominent states, officials at the Kano State Pilgrims' Board revealed that they were still deliberating on the fare increment and expected to decide within the next 24 hours. This delay has only added to the anxiety and uncertainty among intending pilgrims, who are unsure of how to proceed in light of the sudden cost spike.
Intending pilgrims shared their dismay and apprehension over the fare hike, highlighting the immense financial burden it poses. Mustapha Ahmad, a hopeful pilgrim from Kano, expressed his disappointment, stating that he had been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to perform Hajj, but now finds himself at a loss due to the substantial increase in costs. Similarly, Hafsat Yusuf, who had diligently saved and made sacrifices to fund her pilgrimage, now faces the daunting prospect of raising additional funds within a limited timeframe.
The situation in other states, such as Kwara and Lagos, reflects a similar sentiment of frustration and concern among intending pilgrims. Many have opted to seek refunds, citing their inability to afford the escalated fare, while others grapple with the prospect of borrowing or selling assets to cover the additional costs.
Civil society organizations and stakeholders have also weighed in on the matter, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and prevent what they fear could be a significant decline in the number of Nigerian pilgrims this year. Independent Hajj Reporters emphasized the urgency of government intervention to ensure that aspiring pilgrims are not deprived of the opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations due to financial constraints.
Meanwhile, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) issued a stern warning against hajj operators charging pilgrims above the prevailing exchange rate, urging for a fair and equitable pricing system. Former government officials and Hajj commissioners have echoed these sentiments, urging intending pilgrims not to resort to borrowing or taking loans to cover the increased fare, emphasizing the importance of prudent financial management.
