By Sadiq Abdulfatah

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 in the 2026 Hajj.

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

In a statement signed by its national coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, IHR noted that the conduct of Hadaya has remained a contentious issue, often plagued by 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. Many pilgrims still prefer to pay via some state pilgrims boards.

It alleged that while some states maintain transparency, others divert funds meant for Hady, thereby denying pilgrims the fulfilment of a key religious obligation.

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

IHR further observed that although the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had integrated Hadaya into the Hajj payment system, Nigeria was yet to fully comply, leaving room for states to manage this year’s Hady project.

It urged the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria to set up a dedicated committee to regulate the process as part of its renewed efforts to strengthen oversight and accountability in the Hajj industry.

Source: Independent Hajj Reporters