2026 Hajj: NAHCON Advocates Early Payment by Prospective Pilgrims, Engages Katsina Governor

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has called on intending pilgrims to make early payments and register in advance to ease logistical challenges associated with the Hajj exercise.

Chairman of the Commission, Professor Abdullahi Usman, made the appeal on Wednesday during a media briefing in Katsina, following a courtesy visit to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda. The meeting focused on strategies to improve preparations for upcoming Hajj operations.

Prof. Usman emphasized that early registration is crucial for securing quality accommodation and reducing avoidable complications, particularly those related to high travel costs and delays in the processing of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA).

“As leaders, we urge scholars, journalists, and all relevant stakeholders to educate the public on the importance of early registration. Late payments limit our ability to make timely arrangements, especially for securing decent accommodation,” he said.

He also revealed that the 2026 Hajj fare may be lower than previous years, although final confirmation is still pending.

In response, Governor Radda pledged the full support of the Katsina State Government and announced plans to collaborate with other northern governors. He immediately directed the state’s Commissioner for Religious Affairs to begin a sensitisation campaign through various media platforms to promote early registration.

The development follows recent reforms by NAHCON aimed at overhauling its operations and reducing Hajj fares in response to economic pressures and complaints from pilgrims.