The Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has called on the Federal Government to lower the cost of the 2025 Hajj to make the religious exercise more affordable for intending pilgrims, especially in light of the current economic challenges.
The governor made this appeal during an event organized by the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board to refund money remitted by Saudi Arabian authorities due to a power outage experienced during the 2023 Hajj. This was disclosed in a statement by his media aide, Sanusi Bature, on Tuesday in Kano.
Governor Yusuf commended the Saudi Arabian Government for its goodwill in providing refunds and pledged to formally express appreciation to the kingdom through its consulate in Kano. He also praised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for its transparency and timely processing of the refunds.
Yusuf lauded the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board for the seamless organization of the 2024 Hajj and urged the board to build on its successes as preparations for the 2025 pilgrimage have already begun.
The governor, who recently performed the Lesser Hajj, assured citizens that efforts are underway to address any areas requiring improvement to ensure a better experience for future pilgrims.
Speaking at the event, Kano State Deputy Governor and Head of the 2024 Hajj Delegation, Aminu Abdulsalam, commended Governor Yusuf for his consistent support of the board. Additionally, the board’s Director-General, Laminu Danbaffa, announced that a refund of N375 million had been disbursed to pilgrims for the 2023 Hajj exercise.
