NAHCON seeks digital reforms, Hajj investments to cut pilgrimage costs
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has called for stronger international partnerships and digital transformation in Hajj fund management to reduce pilgrimage costs and protect the financial interests of future pilgrims.
The commission’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, made the call while participating in the 8th International Hajj Fund Forum (IHFF) 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The forum, hosted by Indonesia’s Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) at the Jakarta International Convention Centre, brought together policymakers, Islamic finance experts and institutional leaders to discuss sustainable funding for Hajj operations.
Speaking during a panel session alongside BPKH Executive Board Chief, Fadlul Imansyah, and other international participants, Yusuf stressed the need for coordinated institutional efforts and technology-driven solutions to address rising pilgrimage costs and global economic uncertainties.
He said Hajj fund management should go beyond financing annual pilgrimages to include wealth preservation and sustainable returns for future generations.
“The future of Hajj administration depends on our collective ability to innovate,” Yusuf said, adding that stronger partnerships and technological advancements would help promote transparent and economically sustainable Hajj operations.
The NAHCON chairman also advocated investment in infrastructure linked to the Hajj value chain, particularly hospitality and logistics, as part of efforts to reduce accommodation expenses while generating sustainable returns.
He said collaboration with international partners, including Indonesia, could help Nigeria strengthen its financial management systems and improve the economic sustainability of pilgrimage operations.
