2026 Hajj: IHR Raises Alarm Over Hadaya Transparency, Calls For Oversight Committee

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has called for the establishment of a special committee to oversee the payment and implementation of Hadaya (animal sacrifice) for Nigerian pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj.

The group said the move is necessary to prevent a recurrence of the alleged irregularities recorded during the 2025 pilgrimage exercise.

IHR in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, noted that the conduct of Hadaya has remained a contentious issue, often plagued by a lack of transparency and accountability.

According to the group, the arrangement allowing Jaiz Bank to facilitate Hadaya payments through an Islamic Development Bank-approved platform has not fully addressed the challenges, as many pilgrims still prefer to make payments through their respective state pilgrims boards.

IHR alleged that while some states maintain transparency, others divert funds meant for Hadaya, thereby denying pilgrims the opportunity to fulfil a key religious obligation.

The group also called for uniformity in Hadaya charges across all states, noting that disparities persist despite the existence of uniform Hajj fares based on flight zones.

It further observed that although the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has integrated Hadaya into the Hajj payment system, Nigeria is yet to fully comply, leaving room for states to continue managing the process.

IHR urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to establish a dedicated committee to regulate the process, as part of renewed efforts to strengthen oversight and accountability in the Hajj industry.