A public and policy analyst, Suleiman Salihu Mu’azu, has appealed to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria to harmonise and extend the deadline for balance payments for the 2026 Hajj to January 28.
In a letter dated January 10, 2026, addressed to the commission and copied to state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards and media organisations, Mu’azu said the request was informed by prevailing economic conditions and operational challenges facing intending pilgrims and state boards.
He noted that inflation and recent foreign exchange fluctuations have reduced the disposable income of many prospective pilgrims, particularly farmers and traders, making it difficult for them to meet the current payment timeline.
The analyst also said several state pilgrims welfare boards are working with internal schedules that extend to the end of January, arguing that a unified national deadline would improve coordination and prevent last-minute congestion in banking and verification processes.
According to him, extending the deadline would also enhance inclusion by allowing intending pilgrims who are close to completing their payments to participate, while supporting the financial viability of chartered flights and logistics arrangements.
Mu’azu urged the commission to consider the proposal in the interest of a smooth and inclusive Hajj operation, adding that a short extension would ease financial pressure on pilgrims without disrupting existing plans.
