Sokoto State Appeals to NAHCON for Deadline Extension on Hajj Fare Payment

• Sokoto State government requests an extension for N1.9 million hajj fee deadline due to financial constraints faced by intending pilgrims
• Chairman of Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency highlights challenges for traders and farmers in meeting payment deadline

The Sokoto State government has formally requested an extension of the deadline for the payment of an additional N1.9 million required from intending pilgrims for the 2024 hajj pilgrimage.

Aliyu Musa, the chairman of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, conveyed this appeal during an interview with Daily Trust in Sokoto.

Last December, the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) set the minimum fare for pilgrims at N4.9 million, based on prevailing exchange rates. However, NAHCON subsequently announced an increase of N1.9 million due to the ongoing foreign exchange crisis in Nigeria, setting the new total at N6.8 million and establishing a payment deadline of March 28, 2024, for the additional fee.

While some intending pilgrims from Sokoto State have initiated payments for the supplementary fee, Musa highlighted the challenge faced by many, particularly traders and farmers who rely on seasonal crops for financial support. He emphasized that the allotted time for payment is insufficient for these individuals to meet the deadline.

Musa also disclosed Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s interest in subsidizing hajj expenses for Sokoto State’s intending pilgrims. However, Governor Aliyu is currently in Saudi Arabia for lesser hajj.

Despite the financial strain, Musa noted that pilgrims had not sought refunds but diligently endeavoured to secure the necessary funds to fulfil their payment obligations.

As of now, NAHCON has yet to announce whether an extension for the payment deadline will be granted, leaving many hopeful for a favourable resolution to their predicament.