Commends NAHCON, Hajj Institute for commitments
By Admin:
The Vice President Alhaji Kashim Shettima has called for the establishment of a resilient, self-sustaining Hajj financing model for Nigeria, drawing inspiration from Malaysia’s Tabung Haji and Indonesia’s Hajj Fund Management models.
He made the call at the second National Hajj Stakeholders Summit in Abuja.
Represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the president office of the Vice president
Bashir Maigudu, Shettima commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Hajj Institute of Nigeria for their commitment to improving Hajj operations .
He emphasized the importance of strategic fund management and long-term planning to keep Hajj affordable for Nigerian pilgrims.
Highlighting the Tinubu administration’s support, Shettima noted timely forex allocations and interventions to mitigate rising costs.
He called for enhanced collaboration among state pilgrims’ boards, financial institutions, and Islamic scholars to develop Sharia-compliant financing models that would make it easy for Nigerian pilgrims.
Also speaking, the Sultan of Sokoto, represented by the Emir of Keffi, Shehu Chindo Yamusa called for digitization and operator certification to enhance efficiency.
The Rector of the Hajj Institute of Nigeria, Prof. Nasiru Maiturare, warned of rising Hajj costs despite declining pilgrim numbers and advocated the adoption fintech and private sector involvement.
NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Usman, confirmed preparations for the 2025 Hajj, with over 40,000 pilgrims expected and flights beginning May 9.
The chairman also announced the onboarding of three new banks to expand access to the Hajj Savings Scheme.
He assured all stakeholders that the Commission under his leadership was dedicated to fostering strong partnerships, collaborations and teamwork to ensure the success of the 2025 Hajj operations.
