The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to building a resilient and inclusive financial model for Hajj operations in Nigeria.
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Speaking at the second National Stakeholders Summit of Nigeria’s Hajj and Umrah Industry held at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, Professor Usman described the summit as a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders in the Hajj ecosystem. The event marked his first summit appearance since assuming office.
Themed “Sustainable Hajj Financing: Developing a Resilient Model for Nigerian Pilgrims and Operators”, the summit brought together stakeholders from government, religious institutions, financial institutions, tour operators, and civil society organizations.
Professor Usman commended the Hajj Institute of Nigeria (HIN) for organizing the summit and expressed appreciation to Jaiz Bank Plc and other non-interest financial institutions for co-sponsoring the program. He emphasized the need for a sustainable financial structure in light of the rising costs of Hajj due to foreign exchange volatility and changing regulatory dynamics.
Highlighting a major achievement, the NAHCON Chairman announced the onboarding of three new partner banks Alternative Bank, TAJ Bank, and Lotus Bank into the Hajj Savings Scheme. He noted that this move would expand access to ethical financial services and enable more Nigerians to plan their pilgrimage with financial discipline and ease.
“This expansion is strategic,” he said, “as it enhances financial inclusion and reinforces our goal of affordability, efficiency, and integrity in Hajj operations.”
The summit featured a keynote address by Dr. Mansur Muhtar, former Vice President of the Islamic Development Bank, and panel discussions led by seasoned professionals including Bashir M. Bugaje, Dr. Muhammad Ahmad, and Professor Wasiu O. Gadaeen.
Professor Usman assured stakeholders of NAHCON’s preparedness for the 2025 Hajj, revealing that four airlines had been licensed to airlift over 40,000 pilgrims, in addition to more than 14,000 expected to travel with private tour operators. The inaugural flight is scheduled for May 9, 2025.
He expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima for their unwavering support, particularly in facilitating the provision of Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash a decision that has brought significant relief to pilgrims and operators.
The NAHCON boss also thanked the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, for his spiritual guidance and support, and acknowledged the dedication of the Commission’s Board members, staff, and the leadership of States Pilgrims Welfare Boards.
Professor Usman concluded his remarks with a pledge to lead NAHCON with transparency, dedication, and the fear of Allah.