Governor Mohammed calls for decentralization of Hajj operations

• Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, criticises the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for poor handling of the 2024 Hajj operations
• He calls for decentralisation of Hajj operations to allow state governments to take control of pilgrims' welfare
• The governor donates 300 Saudi Riyals to each of the 2,680 Bauchi state pilgrims as Sallah gifts

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has expressed his disappointment with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over the handling of the 2024 Hajj operations in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking to state pilgrims in Mina, Mecca, the Governor criticised NAHCON's policies, which he said had caused hardships for pilgrims despite the high costs of Hajj seats.

Bauchi governor pledges to fight the monopoly of NAHCON. Image: X/Bala Mohammed
Source: Twitter

Governor Mohammed specifically highlighted the inadequate Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) of less than $500, despite pilgrims paying over N8m for a Hajj seat, Tribune reported.

He called for the decentralisation of Hajj operations, allowing state governments to take control of pilgrims' welfare.

The Governor announced a donation of 300 Saudi Riyals to each of the 2,680 Bauchi state pilgrims as Sallah gifts.

In response, NAHCON Chairman, Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi, acknowledged the challenges but attributed them to factors beyond the Commission's control.

He assured that the Federal Government would address the issues before the next Hajj exercise.

The Chairman of HISBAH Committee, Kano State, and the Executive Secretary, Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, also commended Governor Mohammed for his support and concern for the pilgrims.

Soun queries Chief Imam for performing 2024 Hajj

Legit.ng had earlier reported that the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, criticised Chief Imam, Sheikh Taliat Yunus Olusina Ayilara for undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia without obtaining the traditional ruler's permission.

It is noted that tensions have been ongoing for several months between the traditional ruler and the leader of the Muslim community.

The Chief Imam was among the Nigerian pilgrims who participated in the 1445 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.

Source: Legit.ng