BREAKING NEWS: NAHCON Refunds 19 States’ Hajj Fare

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria has announced completion of Hajj fare refunds for 19 states from the 2025 pilgrimage exercise, dismissing reports of delays in settling the accounts. .. Read ..Full.. Article.. .

The Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts at the Commission, Alhaji Rabiu Na’Allah, on Tuesday, stated that all states which requested reconciliation of their pilgrims’ refunds have been duly settled as of September 10, 2025.

The clarification followed speculation that unresolved 2025 accounts might delay preparations for the 2026 exercise.

The Commission has been under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (EFCC) for alleged fraud and misappropriation of funds, including a N90bn intervention provided by the Federal Government for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

EFCC confirmed in August that two top officials of the commission were in the anti-graft agency’s custody and were being questioned over alleged fraud.

In a rejoinder written by Shafii Sani Mohammed, an officer in the Information and Publications Division of the Commission, Na’Allah explained that refunds from previous years have also been cleared, except in cases where some states are yet to formally initiate the process with the commission.

The rejoinder read, “The Commission confirmed this through Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts, Alhaji Rabiu Na’Allah, who stressed that NAHCON has settled all matters relating to pilgrims’ refunds from the 2025 Hajj on Wednesday, 10th September 2025 had been fully reconciled.

“According to him, 19 States that requested reconciliation of pilgrims’ Hajj fare refunds have been duly settled. He added that refunds from previous years have also been cleared, except in cases where some States are yet to formally initiate reconciliation with the Commission.”

However, the commission said its focus is now being channeled to preparations for the 2026 Hajj. It further urged State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Licensed Tour Operators to remit Hajj fares early, in line with the operational calendar of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

NAHCON stressed that early payment is crucial to securing accommodation, transportation, and other essential services in Makkah, Madinah, and the Mashā’ir (the sacred sites).

It added that timely remittance would safeguard Nigeria’s full participation in next year’s pilgrimage and guarantee improved comfort and dignity for pilgrims.

“Timely payment will ensure Nigeria secures essential services, avoid last-minute challenges, and..  Read . .More