Kano Governor Announces Subsidy for Hajj Pilgrims Amid Fare Increase

By Gabriella Ogbu

Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf declared on Wednesday in response to the recent increase of N1.9 million in the Hajj pilgrimage price set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria. He has given a N500,000 incentive for pilgrims departing from Kano.

Through a tweet posted on his official handle, Governor Abba Yusuf stated, “Following the sudden increase of N1.9 million Hajj fare by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, I have approved a subsidy of N500,000 each for intending pilgrims from Kano embarking on the 2024 pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.”

This subsidy aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by pilgrims from Kano in light of the significant increase in the Hajj pilgrimage fare. Governor Yusuf’s decision will notably reduce the amount required from intending pilgrims who have already registered and made initial deposits with the State Pilgrims Board.

Under the new subsidy scheme, pilgrims who have previously paid a total deposit of N4.7 million will now only need to deposit N1.4 million out of the N1.9 million increase. Similarly, those who have deposited N4.5 million will now be required to deposit a reduced amount, easing the financial strain on pilgrims and their families.

While Governor Yusuf’s announcement has been met with appreciation from many quarters, there has also been criticism regarding the government’s priorities and allocation of funds. Several comments under the tweet have highlighted concerns about the perceived mismanagement of resources and questioned whether subsidizing Hajj fares should be the primary focus of government expenditure.