The deadline for the payment of the 2024 hajj has been extended, according to the National Hajj Commission.
According to Fatima Sanda Usara, the Assistant Director on Public Affairs, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the new deadline is now January 31, 2024, as against December 31, 2023.
According to Daily Trust’s report, the commission was in a dilemma over the low turnout and might have to extend the deadline.
However, the commission insisted on going ahead with the number of intending pilgrims who paid before the December 31 deadline.
But the commission has finally backtracked, admitting that the extension was inevitable.
“The extension was in response to the heartfelt concerns raised by religious clerics, State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions, State Governors and other stakeholders,” she said.
Usara also stated that the federal government’s approval for extending the deadline allowed 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,” she said.
“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 the end date for signing all contracts, signalling the end of payments into IBAN accounts. With this extension, NAHCON has barely a month to finalise payment of all Hajj deposits into its IBAN account for the 2024 Hajj.
“This extension, even though it overstretches NAHCON’s preparatory timeline, reflects the Commission’s Chairman, Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi’s commitment to accommodating the concerns of stakeholders. He expressed gratitude to religious leaders, state boards, and governors for their advocacy on behalf of the pilgrims. Malam Arabi described this collaborative effort as a testament to the shared commitment to facilitating a meaningful and inclusive Hajj experience for all. He prayed all Hajj handlers would utilise this opportunity well for the success of 2024 Hajj operations,” she added.