Table of Contents
- Expected Revenue from Hajj Pilgrims
- Compulsory Service Charge
- Dollar Equivalent of the Charge
- Purpose of the Fee
The federal government is projected to generate approximately N5.4 billion from Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj through a mandatory service charge, according to a recent report.
This figure was reported by the Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a civil society organization that oversees transparency in Hajj operations.
The group shared this information in a statement issued by its national coordinator, which was distributed to journalists over the weekend.
As per the report, the fare for the 2026 Hajj requires each pilgrim to pay a 2 percent service charge directly to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
IHR clarified that with the official Hajj fare set at approximately N7.6 million per pilgrim, the charge amounts to around N136,417 for each individual.
It stated, “With the official Hajj fare established at roughly N7.6 million per person, the compulsory charge equates to about N136,417 per pilgrim.”
Considering Nigeria's allocation of 40,000 pilgrims, the group estimated that the total funds directed to the CBN would range between N5.3 billion and N5.4 billion.
The organization also mentioned that in dollar terms, each pilgrim pays $92.46, leading to a total of approximately $3.7 million. This amount is higher than the $90 fee charged during the 2025 Hajj.
IHR remarked, “Based on an allocation of 40,000 pilgrims across various states, the total revenue anticipated for the CBN is estimated to be between N5.3 billion and N5.4 billion.”
It further elaborated, “In U.S. currency, the fee amounts to $92.46 per person, totaling around $3.7 million.”
“This figure represents an increase from the $90 fee applied during the 2025 Hajj season.”
The organization explained that the fee is primarily associated with transferring funds to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) foreign bank account in Saudi Arabia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected revenue from Nigerian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj?
The federal government is expected to generate approximately N5.4 billion from Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj.
What is the compulsory service charge for the 2026 Hajj?
Each pilgrim is required to pay a 2 percent service charge on the official Hajj fare, which is approximately N136,417 per person.
How much will the service charge be in U.S. dollars?
In dollar terms, each pilgrim will pay $92.46, resulting in a total of around $3.7 million for all pilgrims.
What is the purpose of the service charge?
The fee is primarily linked to transferring funds to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s (NAHCON) foreign bank account in Saudi Arabia.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
