Hajj: FG Releases N90 Billion For Subsidy

By Ayodele Oni

Federal government announced on Wednesday that it subsidized this year’s Hajj with N90 billion  in order to have a smooth and successful exercise.

Government also explained that the amount was necesitated by a major challenge due to fluctuation in foreign exchange rates.

President Bola Tinubu disclosed this at the flagging-off of the inaugural airlift of 2024 Hajj exercise from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The ceremony took place at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi with the President,  represented by the Vice President,  Sen. Kashim Shettima.

He urged the intending pilgrims to pray for peace, unity and progress of the country.

The President also charged the intending pilgrims to abide by all rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and urged them to avoid any illicit act capable of affecting the integrity of their Hajj.

“Mr president has been committed to this year’s Hajji due to the economic situation, he has also contributed the sum of N90 billion Naira to subsidise this year’s Hajj exercise in order to have a smooth and successful exercise.

”You may recall that this year, we had a major challenge in announcing the final hajj fare for the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage due to fluctuation in foreign exchange rates.

”President Bola Tinubu also work round the clock to control the downwards spiral of our local currency to bring relief to our pilgrims and other Nigerians.

”A moved that eventually succeeded in lowering the fare. The President approved the released of N90 billion to subsidize the cost of pilgrimage for this year’s hajj.”

He stated that the government of Renewed Hope led by Tinubu attaches immense importance to religious pilgrimage due to the role its plays in transforming behavioral and social vices of the believers beyond performing the pilgrimage.

Delivering his speech, the Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris said this year’s Hajji signifies a sacred journey for thousands of devoted pilgrims who embarked on a spiritual voyage to the Holy land.

“It is a journey of faith, devotion and unity where believers come together to fufil one of the five pillars of Islam, the pilgrimage to Mecca is a profound experience that fosters a sense of community, humility and spiritual renewal.

“It is a time for reflection, prayer and seeking forgiveness, as well as an opportunity for personal growth and self discovery,” he added.

In his remarks, the National Chairman, National Hajji Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Jalai Ahmad Arabi thanked the President and Kebbi State Governor for their support and cooperation towards the success of this year’s Hajji exercise.

He described this year’s Hajji as the most innovative and special one, saying, “honestly, I am overwhelm by the way and manner the Kebbi State committed resources for them to achieve.