Bauchi Gov. approves N2.1bn for 2024 Hajj fare

Rauf Oyewole, Bauchi

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has subsidised the 2024 Hajj exercise with each pilgrim getting N959,025, a 50 percent of the recent increment of N1.9m by the National Hajj Commission.

Briefing the press yesterday, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Yakubu Hamza said that the additional fare for each of the 2,290 intending pilgrims was graciously approved by the Governor to reduce their burden.

The Commissioner said that the total sum is N2,196,110,000  for the payment of the subsidy fare.

“This unprecedented development underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that Muslim faithfuls in Bauchi State have the opportunity to fulfill their sacred duty of performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.

“The subsidy of the Hajj fare is a demonstration of His Excellency’s dedication to promoting religious harmony and supporting the religious aspirations of the people of Bauchi State. It reflects the government’s recognition of the importance of the Hajj in the lives of Muslims and its significance as a spiritual journey of self-discovery and devotion.

“By subsidising the Hajj fare, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden on intending pilgrims, thereby enabling more citizens to participate in this revered religious obligation.

“This initiative also aligns with the government’s efforts to promote inclusive governance and ensure that every citizen has equal access to opportunities and resources,” he said.

Mohammed expressed his gratitude to the people of the State for their continued support and cooperation and reiterates his administration’s commitment to promoting peace, unity, and progress across the state.