2023 Hajj: NAHCON Returns ₦5.3bn to States and Tour Operators Over Substandard Services

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has refunded ₦4.48 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the Armed Forces following complaints about inadequate services provided to Nigerian pilgrims during the 2023 Hajj. The issues included electricity disruptions during the Masha’ir camping, which impacted cooling systems and caused significant discomfort for pilgrims.

Additionally, NAHCON announced a refund of ₦917.1 million to 192 accredited tour operators, intended for distribution to their respective pilgrims. The commission assured that remaining tour operators would also be reimbursed after reconciliation processes.

Each pilgrim who participated in the 2023 Hajj is entitled to a refund of ₦61,080 and is encouraged to contact their respective Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards or tour operators to claim their funds.

NAHCON emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability under the leadership of Chairman/CEO Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman. It also urged prospective 2025 Hajj pilgrims to promptly deposit their fares to enable early arrangements in line with Saudi Arabia’s guidelines.

The commission called on agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC to oversee the refund process to ensure transparency and adherence to due process.