The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) yesterday cautioned state pilgrims welfare boards (SPWBs) against charging above the amount jointly agreed which is less than N3 million.
The commission stated some states are announcing fares different from the ones jointly agreed by the states and the commission and as approved by the government.
A statement by Deputy Director, Information and Publications Mousa Ubandawaki, said less than N3 million inclusive of local charges for all categories of pilgrims under the State Pilgrims Welfare Agencies.
The statement reads,
“It is important to appeal to all the stakeholders that we should work as a team in harmony and under a conducive and peaceful atmosphere, such that we avoid any measure of exploitation of the Pilgrims.
“While we are not unmindful of the financial situation in some states, however, we hasten to reiterate that the commission will not hesitate to sanction erring states (PWBs) by either revoking its operational license and or withdrawing this year’s Hajj Allocation with immediate effect.
“NAHCON wishes to reiterate its commitment to the welfare of our pilgrims and ensure that they have value for money in terms of the price and facilities they will enjoy during the pilgrimage.”
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government in defiance to NAHCON’s caution, has approved the sum of N3.2 million as fare for this year’s Hajj.
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, during an important meeting he held with the intending pilgrims and other stakeholders yesterday, stated that the breakdown of the total package as announced by the NAHCON included hotel accommodation, cost of airline, Basic Travel Allowance (BTA), amongst others.
He appealed to intending pilgrims who had initially deposited the sum of N2,640,000. 00 to commence payment of the balance sum of N560,000on or before April 21, which is the deadline given by NAHCON to all the States for remittance.
He further admonished them not to be despaired of the reality on ground rather to see it as the wish of Allah.
He reiterated further that except otherwise opined, the intending pilgrims need not travel with any foodstuffs, saying that the government would provide the local delicacies whilst in the Kingdom.
Chairman of SPWB Imam Shakiru Ayinde Gafar while delivering his welcome address, informed the gathering that necessary Pre-Hajj visits had earlier been embarked upon for a convenient and seamless Hajj operation for all intending pilgrims.
