President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed an immediate downward review of the 2026 Hajj fares, citing the recent appreciation of the naira against the dollar.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who conveyed the President’s directive on October 6, 2025, at a meeting with the management and board of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in Abuja, gave the commission two days to implement the new rates.

“The President believes the gains from the naira’s appreciation must be reflected in the Hajj fares so that the benefits reach the pilgrims,” said Senator Ibrahim Hadeija, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, after the meeting at the Presidential Villa.

He explained that last year’s fare of ₦8.5 million was based on a weaker exchange rate. “With the improved value of the naira, there should be a significant reduction this year,” Hadeija added.

NAHCON Secretary, Dr Mustapha Mohammad, welcomed the directive, promising quick action. “The lower the fare, the better for Muslim faithful. We will work tirelessly to make Hajj affordable for every intending pilgrim,” he said.

Similarly, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, Chairman of the Kebbi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, commended the decision. “We are very happy with this intervention. It will ease the burden on pilgrims,” he noted.

The move is part of the administration’s ongoing economic reforms aimed at reducing costs and ensuring wider access to essential religious obligations.