The increased Hajj fare, Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed has approved a 50% subsidy of N950,000 for the 2024 pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The National Hajj Commission recently raised the fare for the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia by N1,918,032.91, leading to concerns among prospective pilgrims.

To address this issue, the Bauchi state government announced that it would subsidize N959,000 for each of the 1,652 intending pilgrims from the state, amounting to a total of N2.5 billion. This significant decision was announced by Mukhtar Gidado, the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the Governor.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s approval of the subsidy aims to facilitate religious obligations and improve the welfare of Bauchi citizens. The subsidy covers 50% of the additional fare imposed by the National Hajj Commission, enabling more individuals to participate in the sacred duty of performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.

The government has allocated the sum of N2,196,110 for the immediate payment of the subsidy fare, highlighting their commitment to ensuring equal access to opportunities and resources for all citizens. This initiative not only alleviates the financial burden on intending pilgrims but also promotes inclusive governance and supports the fulfillment of religious obligations for Muslims in Bauchi State.