The Federal Government has reportedly allocated N90 billion to subsidize the 2024 pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This move comes in response to the forex crisis, which has significantly impacted travel expenses. Without this intervention, each intending pilgrim would have been required to pay an additional N3.5 million on top of the initial fare of N4.9 million.
A source at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) revealed that the commission initially required N230 billion to address the fare differential caused by the forex crisis. The N90 billion government support, provided during the inauguration of NAHCON's board and management on February 28, 2024, was reportedly not publicized, leading to its omission in news reports.
The source explained, "If the intending pilgrims pay ₦1.9 million, it is then it can be balanced." NAHCON has also reached out to state governors to subsidize the hajj fare for pilgrims in their respective states, with Kano responding by subsidizing it by N500,000 per pilgrim.
Despite the substantial government subsidy, there has been no official announcement to avoid the perception of favoritism towards any faith. A top official at the Presidency confirmed the government's financial support for the hajj exercise, citing the pilgrims' concerns as the reason for the support.
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