A senior official of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, has described the Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS) as the most reliable approach for ensuring an orderly and successful Hajj exercise.
Yagawal, who serves as the Commissioner in charge of Planning, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services, explained in Sokoto on Monday that the scheme was created through a partnership between NAHCON and non-interest financial institutions, particularly Jaiz Bank, to help intending pilgrims save gradually in a Sharia-compliant system.
He noted that the savings model would eliminate late payment of Hajj fares, make it easier to secure quality accommodation in both Mecca and Medina, and strengthen general preparations for the annual pilgrimage.
According to him, delayed payments often force states into last-minute arrangements, which result in accommodation being secured far from the holy sites, especially since Saudi authorities operate strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Many people wait until the payment deadline draws near before trying to raise their Hajj funds at once, sometimes selling livestock or farm produce to meet up,” he said. “This habit disrupts early planning, even though Saudi Arabia usually releases information about the next Hajj immediately after concluding the previous one.”
Yagawal stressed that Hajj requires long-term preparation, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime act of worship that should be planned years ahead.
He added that the Hajj Savings Scheme is an internationally recognized system that allows pilgrims’ welfare agencies to make long-term arrangements for upcoming exercises. Under the model, intending pilgrims can enroll through approved financial institutions and deposit money gradually through installment options.
He further explained that the scheme helps reduce the overall cost of Hajj because the funds deposited by pilgrims are invested in legitimate ventures, generating lawful profit that benefits the account holders.
“This initiative is a sustainable plan that will benefit future generations, especially young people and low-income earners,” he said.
Yagawal applauded President Bola Tinubu for supporting measures that strengthen Hajj operations and for backing policies that led to a reduction in the 2026 Hajj fare. He also commended various state governors, especially those from the North-West region, for their continuous support to NAHCON.
He urged all stakeholders to adhere strictly to the timelines set by Saudi authorities for the 2026 pilgrimage.
The Hajj Savings Scheme operates on the Mudaraba (partnership) principle, where deposited funds are invested and profits are shared with savers. The scheme is open to all Muslims, regardless of age, income level, or background, and allows flexible payment options—daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or semi-annually.
With its simplified enrollment requirements, including only a BVN and NIN, the scheme offers an accessible pathway for Nigerians seeking to fulfill the sacred obligation of Hajj.