The final Hajj cost for Southern Muslims in 2024 has been set at N4.9 million due to exchange rate variance as announced by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
Initially pegged at N4.5 million in October, the commission had set this amount in line with the prevailing dollar rate, anticipating it would determine the ultimate cost of the pilgrimage.Â
However, due to recent fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate, the Commission had to make adjustments.Â
The 2024 Hajj pilgrimage cost modifications will be discussed in this article, along with the difficulties of currency fluctuations, negotiation efforts, and the Commission’s dedication to ensuring a successful and reasonably priced trip for Muslims in the South.
Final Hajj Cost for Southern Muslims Set at N4.9 Million in 2024 Due to Exchange Rate Variance
In a statement by NAHCON’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Fatima Usara, it was revealed that despite efforts to maintain the fare at N4.5 million, the recent instability in the dollar exchange rate necessitated a revision. This adjustment prevented the fares from potentially reaching up to N6 million.
Efforts to Maintain the Initial Cost
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Jalal Ahmad Arabi, had actively negotiated prices with service providers in Saudi Arabia in late January, seeking to keep the 2024 Hajj fare at N4.5 million.
The Commission’s efforts remained high until a notable crash in the Naira mid-week, prompting a necessary adjustment.
The adjustments were made to consolidate gains achieved in lowering the cost of services for the Hajj.
Without these measures, the price for the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage might have surged to about N6 million, according to the statement.
Final Fare Breakdown
Consequently, the commission has now finalized the fares for intending pilgrims from Nigeria’s Southern center at N4,899,000.
Meanwhile, those from the Northern center will pay N4,699,000, and pilgrims from Yola and Maiduguri centers will pay a fee of N4,679,000 for the 2024 Hajj exercise.Â
Intending pilgrims have been advised to pay or balance their Hajj fares by Monday, February 12, 2024, to enable the commission to transfer the funds before the imminent deadline.
The Chairman’s View
According to the statement, Chairman Jalal Ahmad Arabi stated that “this is the will of Allah,” as the Commission faces a tight deadline of February 25.
The limited time available compelled the commission to make adjustments within the range of N4.5 million.
Despite the challenges posed by foreign exchange factors, NAHCON assured the public of its commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj pilgrimage for all participants.
The statement also expressed gratitude for the understanding and cooperation of the Nigerian Muslim community during these challenging times.
In Summary
In conclusion, the final Hajj cost for Southern Muslims in 2024 has been set at N4.9 million due to exchange rate variance.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s initial efforts to maintain the fare at N4.5 million faced challenges with the recent instability in the dollar exchange rate, leading to necessary adjustments.
Despite these hurdles, the Commission remains committed to providing a smooth and successful Hajj pilgrimage experience for all participants.
The announcement serves as a reminder of the intricate factors influencing pilgrimage costs and the Commission’s dedication to navigating these challenges for the benefit of the Nigerian Muslim community.
