By Dipo Olowookere
The amount to be paid by intending pilgrims to the 2019 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia has been reduced by N51,170.45, about 620 Saudi Riyals equivalent to $165, Business Post has learned.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which announced the downward of the fares on Saturday night, explained that the reduction was as a result of the re-classification of land transportation routes as well as reduction of their rates on the portal of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on transportation routes that will be used by Nigeria.
In the statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs at NAHCON, Ms Fatima Sanda Usara, said Nigerian pilgrims from all States of the Federation, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and the Armed Forces are now to pay N51,170.45 less than the fares earlier announced.
The commission directed all States Pilgrims Welfare Boards, the FCT, and the Armed Forces to immediately announce the review and commence refunds to pilgrims that have paid over the reviewed fare.
The commission said it had therefore, extended the deadline for closure of pilgrims registration to July 15, 2019 due to demand from various quarters and in view of the latest development.
It enjoined all intending pilgrims for 2019 Hajj to conclude payments and all necessary registration procedures before the said date.
Aduragbemi Omiyale 
Modupe Gbadeyanka