As the deadline for the payment of fares for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage approaches, relief has come to some intending pilgrims as both the federal government and some state governments have stepped in to provide subsidies. The federal government released a substantial sum of N90 billion to subsidize the pilgrimage, which would have otherwise required each pilgrim to add at least N3.5 million to the initial fare of N4.9 million. Additionally, states like Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Ogun, and others have implemented their own subsidy programs to ease the financial burden on pilgrims.
However, despite these interventions, challenges persist for some intending pilgrims. Some have requested refunds from state Muslim pilgrims' welfare boards due to their inability to raise the balance of N1.9 million announced by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Others are making efforts to pay the balance themselves. The increase in Hajj fares, attributed to the foreign exchange crisis in Nigeria, has raised concerns among pilgrims and highlighted the need for government support.
In response, state governments like Kebbi and Kogi have settled the balance for their pilgrims, while others like Kano have subsidized the Hajj fare with significant amounts. Despite these efforts, challenges remain in certain states, with some intending pilgrims seeking refunds or struggling to meet the payment deadline.
