Vice-President Senator Kashim Shettima has revealed that the Federal Government spent N90 billion to subsidise 2024 Hajj.
He disclosed the staggering subsidy while inaugurating the 2024 inaugural flight of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi.
Shettima emphasized the significance of Hajj in Muslim life and credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership for overcoming challenges in determining this year’s Hajj fares.
He stated, “President Tinubu took decisive action to stabilize our currency and arrived at a modest fare for this year’s Hajj. The President approved ₦90 billion to subsidize the pilgrimage cost.”
Shettima urged prayers for the administration’s success and the country’s peace and progress, highlighting the sacredness of Mecca and Medina where prayers would be offered.
Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, lauded Tinubu, Shettima, Kebbi State Government, and NAHCON for facilitating the inaugural flight, and praised former Kebbi State Governor, Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, for building Birnin Kebbi International Airport.
He emphasized disciplined behavior among Nigerian pilgrims, urging prayers for national leaders.
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, expressed satisfaction with the inaugural flight and detailed efforts to address pilgrim agency challenges, including constructing aviation infrastructure and enhancing Hajj camp facilities.
National Chairman of NAHCON, Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi, urged pilgrims to be exemplary ambassadors, adhere to Saudi laws, and safeguard their belongings during the pilgrimage.