The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced an extension of the 2024 hajj registration deadline to January 31, following the approval of the federal government.
The initial deadline was set for December 31, 2023, but the extension aims to accommodate the overwhelming requests received from religious bodies and stakeholders across the country.
Fatima Usara, the Assistant Director of Public Affairs at NAHCON, explained in a statement on Tuesday that the extension was granted in response to concerns raised by religious clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, state governors, and other stakeholders.
According to Usara, the adjustment in the registration period will enable NAHCON to determine the total cost of the 2024 hajj pilgrimage accurately.
Additionally, she said new registrants and intending pilgrims who are yet to complete payments now have an opportunity to register and balance up during the extended period.
“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is pleased to announce Federal Government’s approval for an extension of the deadline.
“The new date is set for Jan. 31, providing an additional opportunity for individuals to participate in this sacred pilgrimage.
“The overwhelming request for extension from various religious communities underscores the significance of ensuring accessibility to a broader spectrum of the faithful eager to embark on the spiritual journey of Hajj.”
Usara said NAHCON was confident that before expiration of the new deadline, with the support of its sister agencies, the commission would have determined the total cost of 2024 hajj.
“The extension therefore provides a window for new registrant to do so and by the end of January; those who need to balance up payment would be able to do so as well.
“NAHCON seizes this chance to remind intending pilgrims and other stakeholders that the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has slated Feb.25 as end date for signing all contracts, signaling the end of payments into IBAN accounts.
“With this extension, NAHCON has barely a month to finalise payment of all Hajj deposits into its IBAN account for the 2024 Hajj.
She said that the extension, even though overstretched NAHCON’s preparatory timeline, reflects the commission’s Chairman, Malam Jalal Arabi’s commitment to accommodating the concerns of stakeholders.
“Arabi expressed gratitude to religious leaders, state boards, and governors for their advocacy on behalf of the pilgrims.
“He described this collaborative effort as a testament to the shared commitment to facilitating a meaningful and inclusive Hajj experience for all.
“He prayed all Hajj handlers would utilise this opportunity well for success of 2024 Hajj operations.”
