A group of intending pilgrims has appealed to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to extend the deadline for the 2026 Hajj payment to December 31, 2025, citing economic and seasonal pressures affecting their ability to meet the current requirement.
In an open letter addressed to the Chairman of NAHCON and signed by Suleiman Salihu Mu’azu, the pilgrims stated that the existing December 4 deadline poses significant financial challenges, particularly for farmers currently in peak harvest season and traders relying on end-of-year market sales.
According to the letter, the early dry season accelerated harvest activities, leaving many farmers unable to conclude produce sales in time to remit their Hajj deposits. Traders, the group noted, are equally dependent on festive commercial gains to balance their accounts.
They argued that the extension would align with President Bola Tinubu’s directive on Hajj fare reduction and serve as a relief to many struggling to meet payment conditions.
“An extension would not only ease financial strain but also increase pilgrim participation, promote unity and stimulate economic activity,” the appeal read.
The signatory expressed optimism that NAHCON would consider the request in the interest of fairness and inclusiveness, urging swift action to prevent exclusion of genuine intending pilgrims unable to meet the current deadline.
NAHCON is yet to issue a formal response to the plea.
