To prevent further depreciation in the value of the 2026 Hajj Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA), the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) should urgently release the funds to State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards.
A specific amount is already captured in the 2026 Hajj fare as BTA for each pilgrim. Under the established process, states are required to remit the full Hajj fare collected from pilgrims to NAHCON within the stipulated deadline. Thereafter, the BTA component is expected to be returned to the states for conversion from naira to United States dollars for onward disbursement to #pilgrims.
Over the years, this process has faced persistent challenges. Some states have accused NAHCON of delays in releasing the funds, while NAHCON has, in the past, maintained that certain states deliberately hold on to the money in commercial banks to earn interest before transferring it into their designated BTA accounts.
These delays have had serious consequences. During the 2024 Hajj, the BTA for Nigerian pilgrims was reduced from $500 to $400 after exchange rates rose above the benchmark provided in the Hajj fare template by the time some states approached their banks for dollar conversion.
Releasing the funds to states on time will enable them to promptly lock in current exchange rates and avoid further losses caused by currency volatility. Given the unpredictable nature of the foreign exchange market, delays could significantly erode the value of pilgrims’ entitlements.
At the same time, states must ensure that once funds are received, they are immediately transferred into their BTA accounts and that banks are directed to issue the dollar equivalent without delay. Such funds should not be left in accounts to generate interest at the expense of intending pilgrims.
Timely action by all stakeholders will help safeguard pilgrims’ welfare and ensure a smoother Hajj operation for 2026.
