THE HISTORIC FINANCIAL RELIEF FOR NIGERIAN PILGRIMS AND THE CALL FOR PATRIOTISM IN HAJJ OPERATIONS
By all standards, the year 2025 marks a turning point in the annals of Hajj operations in Nigeria, thanks to the unprecedented efforts of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, under the leadership of its Chairman, Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman.
At a time when the global economy is facing severe challenges and inflation is biting hard, the strategic interventions of Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman have brought monumental financial relief to Nigerian pilgrims, resulting in a total reduction of about 54 billion naira—a feat never recorded since NAHCON’s establishment.
These historic achievements should have inspired nationwide celebrations, particularly among stakeholders tasked with the success of Hajj operations. Unfortunately, and most regrettably, some non-permanent commissioners, driven by personal interests, have chosen to undermine this national success by petitioning the vice president for alleged non-performance. Their actions stand in stark contrast to the collective national interest and the ideals of patriotism and integrity, which the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represents.
Breakdown of the financial relief for Pilgrims
Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman’s leadership has directly secured cost reductions in several critical areas of Hajj logistics:
- A 720 Saudi Riyal reduction for Masha’ir (sacred sites arrangements) per Pilgrim.
- 303 Saudi Riyals reduction in transportation costs per Pilgrim.
- 200 Saudi Riyal reduction in Medina accommodation per Pilgrim.
- Airfare reductions from major embarkation points:
- 116 US dollars from Kano point.
- 149 US dollars from Borno point.
- 138 US dollars from Lagos point
These reductions are not mere figures—they represent tangible relief for thousands of Nigerians striving to fulfill a religious obligation amidst tough economic times. The financial burden eased through these interventions allows more citizens to perform Hajj with dignity and less hardship.
Setting the Record Straight
Allegations raised by the dissenting commissioners are not only baseless but also appear to be politically motivated. Claims that the chairman has handed over the commission to the family members, such as the mention of Abdullahi Abdulmalik Diggi, fall flat when scrutinized. Abdulmalik Diggi hails from Kebbi State, whereas Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman is from Kano State. The fact debunks any insinuation of nepotism. Yet, some commissioners, aware of these truths, still chose to prioritize their grievances over national progress.
Furthermore, the temporary engagement of a few retired staff, limited to two or three individuals, was borne out of operational necessity. In the delicate period leading up to the Hajj, losing experienced hands could jeopardize operations. Their brief contractual engagement was a strategic move, not favouritism.
A Call for National Unity and Patriotism
At this critical time, what Nigeria needs is unity, dedication, and a collective resolve to ensure a smooth, affordable, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj for all Pilgrims. The Vice President, a seasoned administrator with a passion for national development, will no doubt see through the pettiness of these petitions. He understands, as do all well-meaning Nigerians, that the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, demands professionalism, sacrifice, and focus—not internal sabotage.
It is therefore imperative to call on all non-permanent commissioners to rise above personal interest and embrace the success story being written under Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman’s leadership. The commission’s giant stride in securing this financial reduction should not only be applauded but also replicated and build upon in the preparations for the 2025 Hajj operations.
Professor Abdullahi Sale Usman has set a new benchmark for what Hajj management in Nigeria can and should be: transparent, people-centered, and strategically sound. The onus now lies on all stakeholders to support this vision. Let patriotism prevail over personal politics. Let commitment to service override selfish ambition. Let all hands be on deck to deliver successful, unified, and historic 2025 Hajj operations for the glory of Nigeria and the spiritual upliftment of its Muslim citizens.
