Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has called on the Federal Government to reduce the cost of the 2025 Hajj, citing the ongoing economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
The governor made the appeal during a ceremony hosted by the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board to distribute a N375 million refund to pilgrims who performed the 2023 Hajj.
The refund was made by the Saudi Arabian government in response to outage during last year’s Hajj operations.
At the event, Governor Yusuf praised both the Saudi government and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for their transparency and accountability.
He also commended NAHCON for ensuring the prompt and efficient distribution of the funds.
“The National Hajj Commission has shown remarkable prudence and efficiency in ensuring our pilgrims receive their refunds without delay,” Yusuf added.
Governor Yusuf highlighted the achievements of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, which was recognized as the best in the country for its role in organizing the 2023 Hajj.
“Our Pilgrims Welfare Board has made us proud, and I encourage them to continue their excellent work in future Hajj operations,” he said.
READ ALSO: Bauchi, Katsina Governors revamp cabinets to boost governance, service delivery
Reflecting on his recent trip to Saudi Arabia for the lesser Hajj, Yusuf explained that part of his mission was to assess ways the state government could further support and enhance future Hajj operations.
Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, who led the 2024 Kano Hajj Delegation, commended Governor Yusuf for his steadfast commitment to the welfare of pilgrims.
Earlier, Laminu Rabiu Danbaffa, Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, confirmed the refund amount of N375 million, which was facilitated through NAHCON.
He said the refund, which will be distributed directly to pilgrims who performed the 2023 Hajj, highlights the commitment of all involved parties to ensuring the welfare of our pilgrims,” Danbaffa said.
Governor Yusuf assured attendees that Kano State would continue to prioritise the well-being of its pilgrims and improve future Hajj operations.
