*Photo L-R: NAHCON chairman/CEO, Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman (3rd left) presenting a gift of the holy Kaabah key to Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State*
Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) on Wednesday briefed Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State on the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s reforms in Hajj Management which saw lower fares, better healthcare, dignified accommodation, and transparency for Nigerian pilgrims.
The Governor pledged full support and launching of early payment sensitisation to make the 2026 Hajj even more affordable and fulfilling for all Nigerian hujjaj.
The NAHCON chairman/CEO also presented a gift of the holy kaabah key to the governor
Chairman’s Speech On The Achievements of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria
Your Excellency, the Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, distinguished members of the North West Governors’ Forum, ladies and gentlemen,
It is a great honour to brief you here in Katsina on the achievements of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria under the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Despite economic challenges, NAHCON has made notable progress. Mr. President approved N90 billion to reduce the impact of forex on 2024 Hajj fares and an additional N24 billion to clear 2023 airline debts, saving our carriers from collapse. He also directed that airlines accept local currency, shielding pilgrims from further hardship.
We suspended the CBN’s credit card BTA policy and expanded the Hajj Saving Scheme to allow intending pilgrims to save gradually. In line with transparency, NAHCON refunded N5.3 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for unprovided 2023 services.
On welfare, NAHCON secured VIP Tent ‘A+’, adjusted contracts to reflect actual pilgrim numbers, and ensured over 98 percent of medicines were supplied, with health workers fully mobilized. Importantly, pilgrims enjoyed significant savings: 720 Riyals on Mashair services, 200 Riyals on Madinah accommodation, 303 Riyals on transport, and airfare reductions across all regions.
These successes reflect the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the strong support of leaders like Your Excellency.
With your continued partnership, NAHCON will sustain these gains and serve our pilgrims even better.
Thank you.