The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has written to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), expressing concern over delays in refunding excess Hajj fare funds to pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj exercise.In a letter dated January 19, 2026, and signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, the faith-based civil society organisation said findings from its independent monitoring indicated a financial surplus resulting from exchange rate differences during the 2025 Hajj operations.
According to IHR, pilgrims were charged at an exchange rate of ₦1,600 to one US dollar, while payments for services in Saudi Arabia were reportedly made at rates between ₦1,507 and ₦1,520. The group said the variation resulted in unutilised funds estimated at between ₦80,000 and ₦93,000 per dollar per pilgrim. It added that about ₦437,000 may be due for refund to each pilgrim who completed full payment by the February 10 deadline.
IHR noted that NAHCON had earlier assured pilgrims and stakeholders that refunds would be processed after the completion of post-Hajj financial reconciliation, which the organisation said had already been concluded.
The group called on NAHCON to publicly disclose the total refund amount within seven working days and ensure disbursement to eligible pilgrims through State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards within 14 working days. It urged the commission to prioritise transparency and accountability, stating that timely refunds would help reduce the financial burden on pilgrims and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s Hajj administration.
