National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has secured a better deal with Saudi Arabia service providers to ease pilgrims’ burden at this year’s pilgrimage.
Specifically, NAHCON secured cost reduction on accommodation in Makkah, Madina and Masha’ir, as well as a cut on Value-added Tax (VAT) on other services due for Nigerian pilgrims.
By implication, pilgrims already struggling to complete the initial deposit of N4.5 million and nursing possible addition on the total hajj fare can henceforth be hopeful of a moderate fare.
Addressing state chief executives of hajj boards in Abuja, yesterday, NAHCON Chairman, Jalal Arabi, disclosed that the commission and other stakeholders were able to strike a better bargain with the providers during the recent pre-hajj visit at the kingdom.
Arabi, in a statement by Assistant Director of Public Affairs at NAHCON, Fatima Usarah, said the commission had solicited mutual concession for reduced cost, considering global economic realities affecting intending pilgrims from Nigeria in the aftermath of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) meltdown and the war in Europe.
He used the opportunity of the meeting to update the stakeholders on the outcome of meetings with Mu’assasa and plans for the coming Hajj.
The chairman promised the members transparency and inclusiveness on every matter concerning the coming Hajj.
“Resultant from the chairman’s taming culture was a significant cut on negotiable services in Makkah, Madinah and Masha’ir in the interest of Nigerian intending pilgrims struggling to balance their Hajj deposits. Reductions were attained in the cost of airfare, accommodation and Masha’ir packages.
“For instance, the cost of accommodation in Madinah dropped from 2,080 Saudi Riyals in 2023 to SR 1,665 this year. Similarly, the cost of accommodation in Makkah was realised at SR 3,000 against SR 3,500 of the previous year.
“Pilgrims will pay SR 4,770 for Masha’ir package (VAT inclusive) against SR 5,393 paid by last year’s pilgrims. For airfare, the commission was able to beat down the cost with a $138 discount from what was paid last year,” he explained.
The chairman emphasised NAHCON’s resolve to settle for buildings with amenities for physically challenged persons, refrigerators, double-door wardrobes, availability of first aid boxes, water dispensers, functional air conditioners, intercom and Internet/Wi-Fi.
