HIRO INSIGHTS: Ensuring a Safe and Spiritual Hajj for Nigerians 2023–2025

Hajj Intelligence Research Organization (HIRO) Blog –

 First Edition: 

Hajj Issues and Crises 2023–2025: Ensuring a Timely Hajj Mabrur from Preparation to Performance for Nigerian Pilgrims.

By Dr. Hassan Idris, Executive Director, Hajj Intelligence Research Organization (HIRO).

Assalamu alaikum warahmatullah wabarakatuh. I am deeply honored to present the first edition of our blog at the Hajj Intelligence Research Organization (HIRO). 

As someone who has dedicated their life to serving the Nigerian Muslim community, especially those undertaking the sacred journey of Hajj, I feel it is my duty to share insights and solutions that can make this pilgrimage more accessible and meaningful for all. At HIRO, we are committed to using data and research to improve the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims. 

Our goal is to ensure that every pilgrim can perform a Hajj Mabrur—one that is accepted by Allah and brings spiritual rewards. 

This blog edition will explore the challenges and opportunities faced by Nigerian pilgrims from 2023 to 2025, focusing particularly on the upcoming Hajj in 2025, which is scheduled from June 4 to June 9, 2025 (corresponding to 8 to 12 Dhul Hijjah 1446 AH).

We will delve into the preparation phase, the performance of the rituals, and the return home, highlighting key issues such as financial barriers, health risks, and logistical challenges, while also offering practical solutions and recommendations.

Understanding Hajj Mabrur: From Preparation to CompletionHajj Mabrur is not just about completing the physical rituals; it’s about doing so with a pure heart, following Islamic teachings, and avoiding sins. It’s a pilgrimage that, when done correctly, purifies the soul and earns Allah’s acceptance. 

To achieve this, one must prepare carefully, perform the rituals with devotion, and reflect on the experience afterward.

For our Nigerian brothers and sisters, this journey is even more challenging due to our country’s unique circumstances. We face economic hardships, logistical complexities, and sometimes harsh environmental conditions. 

In this blog, we’ll look at each stage of Hajj—preparation, performance, and return—focusing on the specific difficulties Nigerian pilgrims encounter and how we can overcome them.

Preparing for Hajj: Laying the GroundworkFinancial Hurdles and How to Overcome Them One of the biggest challenges for Nigerian pilgrims is the cost of Hajj. 

With our minimum wage being between 47,464 NGN and 118,660 NGN per month, and the Hajj cost ranging from 8,860,000 NGN to 14,240,000 NGN per person, it’s clear that many find it hard to afford this sacred journey. 

Many of our faithful save for years, only to be hit by rising costs due to inflation and a fluctuating exchange rate. In 2023 (1444 AH), for example, the weakened naira made things even tougher.

What can we do?

Government Subsidies and Support: 

Our government, through NAHCON, could offer more subsidies, especially for first-time pilgrims. Countries like Malaysia subsidize over half the cost, which helps a lot. But we need to make sure these subsidies are distributed fairly and transparently.

Installment Payment Plans: We could work with Islamic banks to create Sharia-compliant installment plans. This way, pilgrims can pay over time without getting into interest-based debt, which is haram.

Hajj Savings Schemes: NAHCON should promote its Hajj Savings Scheme more aggressively. 

By encouraging early registration and saving, pilgrims can secure their spots and lock in prices before they rise.Visa and Quota ManagementAnother challenge is ensuring that all eligible pilgrims can secure their visas and spots within Nigeria’s allocated quota. 

In 2023 (1444 AH), Nigeria’s quota was around 95,000 pilgrims, but bureaucratic delays and mismanagement led to many missing out. Some faced delays or outright denials due to incomplete documentation or unregistered travel agencies.

To address this:

Streamlined Visa Processes: NAHCON should partner with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to leverage e-visa platforms, which can issue visas within 24 hours. Digital training for pilgrims on visa requirements would reduce errors.

Accredited Hajj Operators: We need stricter regulation of Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) to prevent fraud and ensure compliance with Saudi regulations. In 2024 (1445 AH), Nigeria suspended some HGOs due to mismanagement.

Quota Transparency: Public disclosure of quota allocations and selection criteria would build trust and ensure equitable access.

Staying Healthy During HajjHajj is not just a spiritual journey; it’s also physically demanding, especially with the large crowds and extreme heat.

 For our Nigerian pilgrims, many of whom are older, this can be particularly challenging. In 2023 (1444 AH), we sadly lost 15 pilgrims, one due to heatstroke. It’s crucial that we take health seriously.

First, NAHCON should make health screenings mandatory before departure. This way, we can identify who might be at risk and provide them with the necessary advice or even exemptions if they’re not fit to travel.

Second, working with our Ministry of Health, we need to ensure that all pilgrims are vaccinated on time, especially against meningitis and polio, as required by Saudi Arabia.

Third, education is key. Before leaving, pilgrims should be trained on how to prevent heatstroke, stay hydrated, and navigate crowded areas safely. Simple things like carrying an umbrella or drinking Zamzam water can make a big difference, as many learned in 2024 (1445 AH).Logistical CoordinationLogistical challenges, such as transportation and accommodation, often disrupt the Hajj experience. 

In 2023 (1444 AH), Nigerian pilgrims reported issues with substandard accommodation in Mina and delays in transportation between Makkah and Madinah.

To improve this:

Centralized Logistics Hub: NAHCON should establish a logistics coordination center in collaboration with Saudi authorities to monitor transport and accommodation quality.

Pre-Booked Services: Contracts with accredited Saudi providers for hotels, tents, and buses should be finalized well in advance, with clear standards for proximity to holy sites and amenities.

Digital Navigation Tools: Promoting Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Navigator and Al-maqsad applications can help pilgrims navigate Makkah and Madinah efficiently.

In our next edition, InshaAllah I shall bring you more stories on 'Hajj Performance Rituals.'

Bissalam.