Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman has given assurance of the efforts being made by his commission to develop resilient and sustainable financial models as a way of addressing the rising cost of performing annual Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
He said: “The Hajj industry faces increasing pressures, from fluctuating foreign exchange rates and rising service costs to evolving regulatory landscapes. These challenges have made the pilgrimage increasingly expensive for our Nigerian brothers and sisters.
“Therefore, developing resilient and sustainable financial models is no longer an option but a necessity to guarantee affordability, efficiency and integrity in Hajj operations.”
Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, who spoke today, April 30, at the second national stakeholders Summit of Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah industry in Abuja, said that the Commission had embraced all the responsibilities and challenges with courage and commitment.
“I am pleased to report a significant milestone in our sustainability drive: the successful on-boarding of three additional partner banks into the Hajj Savings Scheme – Alternative Bank, TAJ Bank, and Lotus Bank.
“This expansion is not just symbolic—it is strategic. These institutions bring with them innovative, ethical, and non-interest financial solutions tailored to the needs of intending pilgrims.
“Their inclusion reinforce our Hajj Savings Scheme, giving more Nigerians the opportunity to plan their pilgrimage with convenience, foresight, and financial discipline.
“With these banks now on board, we are widening the reach of the Hajj Savings Scheme, promoting financial inclusion, and laying a strong foundation for a sustainable Hajj financing model.”
NAHCON boss expressed confidence that the stakeholders summit would provide practical administrative and operational frameworks for Hajj financing in Nigeria.
“Looking ahead, NAHCON, in its role as the regulator of Hajj affairs in Nigeria and the Hajj mission for our pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is fully prepared for the 2025 Hajj operations.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria has licensed four airlines for the airlift of over 40,000 pilgrims, excluding more than 14,000 traveling with tour operators.
“The inaugural flight is scheduled for May 9th, 2025, and with the grace of Allah (in sha Allah), we anticipate seamless operations.
“We are united in our commitment to provide effective and efficient services to the respected guests of Allah (DUYUFUR-Rahman), thereby reinforcing the renewed hope for Nigerian pilgrims.
“I assure all major stakeholders that NAHCON, under my leadership, is dedicated to fostering strong partnerships, collaborations and teamwork to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.”
