The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has intensified discussions with its new financial partners on the Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS), with Jaiz Bank, Taj Bank, Alternative Bank, and Lotus Bank making detailed presentations on a proposed registration portal.
The Hajj Savings Scheme is a long-term contributory plan designed to help intending pilgrims systematically save towards performing Hajj. By partnering with licensed financial institutions, NAHCON aims to make Hajj more affordable, transparent, and accessible for Nigerian Muslims, while reducing reliance on last-minute payments and complex funding arrangements.
During the latest engagement, Taj Bank, Alternative Bank, and Lotus Bank unveiled proposals for a digital platform where intending pilgrims can register using a phone number, Bank Verification Number (BVN), and an email address. The proposed system seeks to deliver a secure and user-friendly digital process that will simplify Hajj preparation.
The banks also showcased innovative features embedded in the platform. These include:
- Facial verification for enhanced security.
- Flexible savings options, allowing deposits at any time.
- Three preferred departure states and flight dates, enabling convenience in travel planning.
- Minor accounts for underage children.
- Full transaction history for easy monitoring.
- Institutional dashboards for State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards and NAHCON to oversee all activities.
- Integrated banking app registration, enabling pilgrims to sign up with a single click.
The financial partners further refined recommendations from earlier sessions with NAHCON to ensure the system complies with regulatory standards and meets the practical needs of prospective pilgrims.
NAHCON officials commended the banks for their proposals, describing the initiative as a step towards improved efficiency, transparency, and convenience. The Commission emphasized that with the active involvement of Jaiz Bank, Taj Bank, Alternative Bank, and Lotus Bank, the Hajj Savings Scheme will provide a sustainable framework for Nigerians to fulfill their religious obligation without undue financial strain.
The collaboration, NAHCON added, reflects its broader commitment to modernizing Hajj operations through technology-driven solutions, ultimately creating a smoother and more reliable process for pilgrims.
