This decision means that intending pilgrims will need to cover the full cost of their pilgrimage without financial assistance from the government.

NAHCON has stated that this move aligns with broader efforts to ensure transparency and sustainability in the management of Hajj operations.

A statement by the spokesperson of the commission, Fatima Sanda Usara, said for the 2025 Hajj, “There will be no concessionary exchange rate from the government for Hajj fare payment for pilgrims whether under state or private Hajj operators.”

This means that if the naira maintains its current rate of N1,650 to a dollar, each intending pilgrim will pay almost N10million for hajj fare as pilgrims pay at least $6,000.

While NAHCON is yet to announce the hajj fare for the 2025 hajj, States Pilgrims Welfare Board have begun asking intending pilgrims to pay N8.5m as initial deposit pending the announcement of the hajj fare.

The statement also announced the refund of 64,682 (150 Saudi Riyal) to every Nigerian pilgrim that participated in the 2023 hajj.

This announcement is likely to affect the affordability of the pilgrimage for many Nigerians, as the Hajj is a significant financial commitment for most pilgrims.