In response to widespread concerns raised by religious clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, and other stakeholders, the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), has decided to extend the deadline for 2024 Hajj payments. The new deadline is now January 31, 2024, offering an additional opportunity for individuals to participate in the sacred pilgrimage.
The extension comes after NAHCON initially insisted on proceeding with the number of intending pilgrims who made payments before the original December 31, 2023 deadline. However, the Commission has acknowledged the inevitability of the extension, emphasizing that it was approved by the federal government in response to the heartfelt concerns expressed by various stakeholders.
Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director on Public Affairs for NAHCON, stated, “The overwhelming request for extension from various religious communities underscores the significance of ensuring accessibility to a broader spectrum of the faithfuls eager to embark on the spiritual journey of Hajj.”
NAHCON remains confident that, with the support of its sister agencies, the total cost of the 2024 Hajj will be determined before the expiration of the new deadline. The extension provides a window for new registrants, and those needing to balance up payments have until the end of January to do so.
Usara emphasized the importance of finalizing all Hajj deposits into NAHCON’s IBAN account by February 25, as per the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s directive. Despite the extension posing challenges to NAHCON’s preparatory timeline, Chairman Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi expressed gratitude to religious leaders, state boards, and governors for their advocacy. Arabi described this collaborative effort as a testament to the shared commitment to facilitating a meaningful and inclusive Hajj experience for all.
NAHCON encourages all Hajj handlers to utilize this extended opportunity for the success of 2024 Hajj operations.
