Get Guardian on GoogleThe National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says it has concluded all reconciliations relating to refunds from the 2025 Hajj and is now concentrating on preparations for the 2026 pilgrimage.
The clarification came in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday by the commission’s Principal Information Officer, Malam Shafii Mohammed, following reports that unresolved financial matters from 2025 were slowing down plans for next year’s operations.
Mohammed said the commission had settled refund requests from 19 states that sought reconciliation after the 2025 exercise. He added that outstanding refunds from previous years had also been addressed, except for states that had yet to formally initiate reconciliation with NAHCON.
“19 states that requested reconciliation of pilgrims’ Hajj fare refunds have been duly settled. Refunds from previous years have also been cleared, except in cases where some states are yet to formally initiate reconciliation with the commission,” Mohammed stated.
With the accounts reconciled, he said NAHCON is turning its attention to the 2026 Hajj and emphasised the importance of early remittance of fares by state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards, agencies, commissions, and licensed tour operators.
According to him, early payment is essential to align with the operational calendar of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. He explained that this would enable Nigeria to secure necessary services in Makkah, Madinah, and the Mashā’ir, while also ensuring improved comfort and dignity for Nigerian pilgrims.
“NAHCON therefore calls on state Muslim pilgrims’ welfare boards, agencies, commissions, and licensed tour operators to remit Hajj fares promptly to avoid last-minute challenges,” he added.
