National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has extended pilgrims’ registration for 2024 Hajj, following the low turnout of intended participants to meet the initial deadline.
Barring last minute change, NAHCON has set January 31, 2024, as new date to give more individuals opportunity to participate in the pilgrimage.
NAHCON Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, stated, yesterday, that the quest to shift from December 31, 2023 became overwhelming due to request from various quarters seeking more windows of opportunity.
The statement read: “In response to the heartfelt concerns raised by clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, state governors and other stakeholders regarding closure of 2024 Hajj registration, NAHCON is pleased to announce Federal Government’s approval for an extension of the deadline.
“The overwhelming request for extension from various religious communities underscores the significance of ensuring accessibility to a broader spectrum of the faithful eager to embark on the spiritual journey of Hajj.
“Consequently, NAHCON is confident that before expiration of the new deadline, with the support of its sister agencies, it would have determined the total cost of 2024 Hajj.”
According to NAHCON, the extension, therefore, provides a window for new registrants to do so, and by the end of January, those who need to balance up for Hajj and Umrah have till February 25 to sign all contracts, signalling the end of payments into IBAN accounts.
“With this extension, NAHCON has barely a month to finalise payment of all Hajj deposits into its IBAN account for the 2024 Hajj. This extension, though overstretches NAHCON’s preparatory timeline, reflects the commitment commission’s Chairman, Jalal Arabi, to accommodate the concerns of stakeholders.”
NAHCON expressed gratitude to religious leaders, state boards and governors for their advocacy on behalf of the pilgrims, adding that the collaborative efforts of the stakeholders are a testament to the shared commitment to facilitating a meaningful and inclusive Hajj experience for all.
