Hajj 2027: IHR Calls for Uniform Hadaya Fee for Nigerian Pilgrims
The group says pilgrims paying similar Hajj fares should not face different charges for the ritual sacrifice and wants NAHCON to introduce a single pricing and monitoring structure.
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to introduce a uniform fee and transparent system for the payment and conduct of Hadaya during the 2027 Hajj.
IHR, a faith-based civil society organisation, said differences in Hadaya charges paid by pilgrims from different states had raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of the ritual sacrifice.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, the organisation said pilgrims from some states, particularly in northern Nigeria, had paid similar Hajj fares but were sometimes required to pay different amounts for Hadaya.
“Pilgrims from the northern zone, for example, paid equal amounts of Hajj fare and as such should be made to pay the same amount of Hadaya fee,” the statement said.
IHR urged NAHCON, as Nigeria’s apex Hajj regulatory body, to establish clear guidelines and a single structure for Hadaya charges and its conduct during Hajj.
The organisation acknowledged that Hadaya during the Mashair is organised through different intermediaries for states, but called for a central coordinating committee involving NAHCON and state pilgrims’ welfare boards.
It said such a mechanism would help establish a uniform pricing structure for Nigerian pilgrims while strengthening monitoring of the sacrifice.
Hadaya refers to the ritual animal sacrifice performed by pilgrims during Hajj. IHR said the process requires strict transparency to protect pilgrims from possible fraud and ensure that the sacrifice is carried out in accordance with Islamic requirements.
The organisation said the sacrifice is obligatory for pilgrims performing Hajj under the Tamattu’ category, adding that more than 98 per cent of Nigerian pilgrims fall under that classification.
IHR also said the 2027 Hajj cost template does not include payment for Hadaya, leaving individual state pilgrims’ welfare boards to determine the amount payable by their pilgrims.
It warned that the arrangement could lead to disparities in charges and called for clearer coordination before the commencement of the 2027 pilgrimage.
The group further stressed the need for pilgrims to be able to verify that their sacrifices have actually been carried out in accordance with Sharia requirements, including the appropriate timing, location and condition of the animal.
According to IHR, greater transparency would protect pilgrims financially while giving them confidence that their religious obligation had been properly fulfilled.
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