BY Maryam Abdullahi
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) says the federal government has approved the extension of 2024 hajj registration to January 31.
The commission had earlier approved December 31, 2023, as the deadline for the 2024 hajj registration.
In a statement on Tuesday, Fatima Usara, assistant director of public affairs of the commission, said the extension was due to the overwhelming request received from religious bodies in the country.
Usara said the adjustment made to the registration duration would enable the commission to determine the total cost of the 2024 hajj.
She said new registrants and intending pilgrims who are yet to complete payment would also have the opportunity to register and balance up during the extension.
“In response to the heartfelt concerns raised by religious clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, State governors and other stakeholders regarding the closure of 2024 hajj registration, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is pleased to announce federal government’s approval for an extension of the deadline,” the statement reads.
“The new date is set for January 31, 2024, providing an additional opportunity for individuals to participate in this sacred pilgrimage.
“The overwhelming request for an extension from various religious communities underscores the significance of ensuring accessibility to a broader spectrum of the faithful eager to embark on the spiritual journey of hajj.
“Consequently, NAHCON is confident that before the expiration of the new deadline, with the support of its sister agencies, the Commission would have determined the total cost of 2024 hajj.
“The extension therefore provides a window for new registrant to do so and by the end of January, those who need to balance up payment would be able to do so as well.
“NAHCON seizes this chance to remind intending pilgrims and other stakeholders that the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has slated 25th February as an end date for signing all contracts, signalling the end of payments into IBAN accounts.”
The NAHCON spokesperson said the commission now has barely one month to complete payment of all hajj deposits into its IBAN account for the exercise.
She added that the extension reflects the commitment of Jalal Arabi, NAHCON chairman, to “accommodate the concerns of stakeholders”.
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