The Federal Government and several states have spent a total of N100.642 billion on subsidies and allowances for pilgrims who participated in the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Alhaji Isiaq Kunle Sanni, an Executive member of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), expressed concern that the government’s priorities are misplaced, stating, “The Muslim community never requested Hajj subsidies. The funds could have been better spent on scholarships and other pressing issues.”
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However, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) commended the governments for the gesture, describing it as a necessary rescue package for pilgrims.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, disclosed that the president had ordered the payment of N90 billion subsidy for the 2024 Hajj, citing the economic situation in Nigeria. Shettima urged the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and progress in the country.
While the Federal Government and some states allocated significant funds for Hajj subsidies, many states have refused to pay wage awards to their workers, citing hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidies.
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Recall that the 2024 Hajj exercise took place from June 14 to June 19, with over 20 states failing to pay wage awards to their workers. Seven states disclosed spending a total of N10.699 billion on pilgrims’ welfare, while others did not disclose their expenditures.
“This is a misplaced priority, especially when workers are suffering due to the non-payment of wage awards,” Sanni added.
