Hajj Commission Breakdown: How N90bn Subsidy Was Utilized For Mecca Pilgrimage

Hajj Commission Breakdown: How N90bn Subsidy Was Utilized For Mecca Pilgrimage

Malam Jalal Arabi, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), clarified that the N90 billion subsidy provided by the Federal Government for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage primarily aimed to offset increased flight costs for pilgrims. This year, 65,000 Nigerian pilgrims undertook the Hajj, with 40 fatalities reported during the pilgrimage…….. CONTINUE READING 

Following concerns raised by state governors regarding accommodation shortages in Muna, Saudi Arabia, and inadequate Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) for pilgrims, the House of Representatives formed a committee, chaired by Sada Soli (APC Katsina), to investigate NAHCON’s performance.

Arabi explained that the subsidy covered the rising Hajj expenses due to high dollar exchange rates, which inflated per-seat costs to over N9 million. NAHCON intervened by contributing N1.6 million per pilgrim towards the total N8 million fare, ensuring that over 50,000 pilgrims could complete their payments without disruption.

Regarding the fund allocation, Arabi emphasized that approximately N80 billion was used for this purpose, leaving around N10 billion for additional logistics, although specific details were not disclosed. Unlike other commissions, NAHCON does not receive regular subventions from the Federal Government for operational expenses.

Reflecting on NAHCON’s achievements under his leadership, Arabi highlighted efforts to improve service delivery despite challenges. Looking ahead, preparations for next year’s Hajj have already begun with a commitment to enhancing efficiency and exceeding pilgrims’ expectations.

Recently, NAHCON completed the repatriation of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia, including 312 individuals from Kwara State.