The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has formally requested the refund of a $100 service charge earlier paid by tour operators to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), citing funding shortfalls arising from recent changes in Hajj service arrangements.
In a letter dated January 2, 2026, and addressed to the Chairman of National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, AHUON explained that the redesignation of tour operators under the B2C segment by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj has disrupted operators’ financial plans and increased the overall cost of Hajj services.
According to AHUON, its members, acting on NAHCON’s advice, had earlier deposited 3,500 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim for Mashaeer services. However, a revised cost analysis from Rawaf Mina now shows a shortfall of over 500 Saudi Riyals per pilgrim, worsened by the commission’s closure of IBAN funding channels.
The association provided a detailed cost breakdown per pilgrim, amounting to 4,935.57 Saudi Riyals, covering camp booking and Mashaeer services, Rawaf ground services, visa and government charges, as well as transportation on the Madinah route.
In light of the shortfall, AHUON appealed to NAHCON to credit the previously collected $100 service charge into operators’ IBAN accounts to cushion the impact of the new financial obligations.
The letter was signed by Abdul Lateef Yusuf Ekundayo, National President of Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria, who reaffirmed the association’s commitment to cooperation while seeking urgent intervention to stabilise Hajj operations for the 2026 season.
