As preparations for the 2026 Hajj gradually begin, concerns over the rising cost of pilgrimage and the challenges involved in coordinating thousands of Nigerian pilgrims continue to dominate discussions among intending pilgrims and stakeholders. In this interview, a top official of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, who is the Federal Commissioner for Operations and Licensing, speaks on the likely cost implications for next year’s Hajj, the impact of exchange rate stability, and the operational realities officials face in managing first-time travellers, logistics, and medical emergencies during the pilgrimage exercise.
Just one or two questions now. How much would an intending pilgrim need to budget to perform Hajj in Makkah next year?
Thank God for the stable economy we are experiencing now. That is a very important question. The cost of Hajj depends largely on the exchange rate because most of the services in Saudi Arabia are paid for in foreign currency. The charges for accommodation, feeding, transportation, and other services in Saudi Arabia may not increase significantly, but fluctuations in the exchange rate can affect the final amount in naira.
For now, because the dollar-to-naira exchange rate appears relatively stable, I can confidently say that what pilgrims paid this year may likely remain close to what they will pay next year. In fact, if the exchange rate improves further, the cost could even come down.
This year, the Hajj fare for pilgrims from the South-West was slightly above ₦7 million, not up to ₦8 million and certainly not ₦10 million. The fare differs across regions because of variations in flight distance and travel time. Pilgrims from the North and far North paid slightly less because their flight duration is shorter compared to those departing from the South-West.
For example, pilgrims from the South-West paid around $2,000 for air transportation, while those from the North paid around $1,800, and those from the far North paid slightly less. The longer the travel distance, the higher the airfare and related costs.
What has been your biggest challenge on the job so far?
The challenges vary from time to time. Sometimes, as soon as you solve one issue, another bigger one emerges. Most of the challenges usually come from logistics, airline operations, or coordinating large numbers of pilgrims.
For instance, yesterday we handled two flights from one state, and it was not easy trying to stabilise operations and ensure the flights departed on schedule. Many pilgrims are first-time travellers and have never boarded an aircraft before, so officials often have to guide them through basic procedures.
Some pilgrims become anxious or confused because everything is new to them. Officials sometimes have to explain simple things such as fastening seat belts, remaining seated until the aircraft stabilises, or even how to handle their luggage and travel documents.
Some situations can appear funny, but still require patience and understanding. Some pilgrims are unfamiliar with airport procedures entirely, so officials must constantly assist and reassure them throughout the journey.
Another challenge is handling casualties or medical emergencies. We have a medical team led by the Head of Medical Mission, and whenever there is any casualty, the team reports directly to us. We then contact the relevant state pilgrims’ board, which in turn informs the family of the affected pilgrim.
In cases of death, Saudi Arabian regulations require that the deceased be buried there. The authorities then issue official death and burial documents, which are forwarded to the family through the state board.
Despite all these challenges, Alhamdulillah, we have not encountered any situation beyond our capacity to manage. Every challenge so far has been properly handled with the help of Almighty Allah.
