The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced a major reduction in the 2026 Hajj fare, following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ease the financial burden on intending pilgrims.

In a statement released over the weekend, NAHCON confirmed that all departure zones will benefit from the downward review, with fare reductions ranging from N748,104.63 to N792,943.83, depending on location.

According to the commission, the Southern Zone recorded the largest cut — N792,943.83 — bringing the new fare to N7,991,141.76, down from N8,784,085.59.

Pilgrims in the Northern Zone will now pay N7,696,769.76, reflecting a reduction of N760,915.83, while the Borno–Adamawa Zone, which traditionally enjoys the lowest rate, will now pay N7,579,020.96 after a cut of N748,104.63.

NAHCON also reiterated December 5 as the final deadline for all payments.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has urged intending pilgrims to complete their payments before the deadline, in line with NAHCON’s directive and new policies of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which prioritise early planning and documentation.

In a statement, the Board Secretary, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, advised those who have made part-payments to promptly complete their balance and assured that pilgrims who have paid above the new approved fare will receive refunds after reconciliation.

Ajomagberin said the board would step up publicity and sensitisation across the state’s 57 LGAs/LCDAs, engaging council chairmen, religious leaders, traditional rulers, major sponsors, and relevant organisations.

He expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and stakeholders for their continued support and reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ensuring a transparent, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience for all Lagos pilgrims.