Tinubu Orders Immediate Reduction of 2026 Hajj Fares as Naira Strengthens

President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate review and downward adjustment of the 2026 Hajj fares, citing the continued appreciation of the naira against the dollar as a key reason for the directive.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed the President’s order during a meeting with the management and board members of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, instructed the commission to submit new fare options within two days.

He called for close collaboration among federal and state officials — including governors — to ensure a unified and realistic pricing framework for the upcoming pilgrimage. Shettima also urged all stakeholders to expedite payments and remittances to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to guarantee a smooth operation.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, said the goal was to reduce the financial burden on intending pilgrims in line with current economic improvements.

“Rates have continued to improve steadily with the naira appreciating based on the effects of government reforms,” Hadeija said.
“The Vice President felt that if pilgrims paid between N8.5 million and N8.6 million last year when the exchange rate was unfavorable, the improvement in the naira should reflect in the new fares. The benefits should be passed to the pilgrims.”

He added that NAHCON officials had been directed to reassess the figures using a “more realistic exchange rate,” which could lead to a “very significant reduction” in the cost of performing Hajj.

NAHCON Secretary Dr Mustapha Mohammad welcomed the directive, saying it would encourage more Muslims to participate in the 2026 pilgrimage.
“It is a welcome development. The lower the Hajj fare, the better for Muslim faithful. We will work tirelessly to ensure the rate is reduced to the barest minimum and made affordable for all,” he said.

Also reacting, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, Chairman of the Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Deputy Chairman of the Forum of Chief Executives of State Pilgrims Boards, praised the President’s intervention.
“We are very happy because the President and Vice President have intervened. Their directive will help bring down Hajj fares, and that’s something we truly appreciate,” he said.

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