Amidst concerns among Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims, Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has taken steps to alleviate the shortfall in their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) caused by unexpected fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) used a rate of 1,252.01 per dollar to calculate the Hajj fare, including BTA, providing 500 USD per pilgrim. However, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) disbursed BTA at a rate of 1,530.86 per dollar, resulting in each pilgrim receiving 415 USD instead of the proposed 500 USD.
Given this scenario, the Governor intervened to ensure that each pilgrim receives the agreed 500 USD at the new exchange rate, amounting to a total differential payment of N119,560,712.70 for the 934 State pilgrims.
In addressing the shortfall promptly, Governor Dapo Abiodun has facilitated the payment of the BTA differentials for all 934 State pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj Exercise, enabling them to proceed with their rites without undue stress.
This swift action by the Governor will enable the pilgrims to receive the full 500 USD without any complications and alleviate the concerns arising from the sudden increase.
The Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, Sheik Iskeel Lawal, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s timely intervention and prayed for the continued success of the administration.
Furthermore, Governor Dapo Abiodun urged the pilgrims to be patriotic and offer fervent prayers for the state and the nation as a whole. He emphasized the need for spiritual support in driving positive transformation, highlighting the role of President Bola Tinubu in reshaping the nation’s trajectory.
Abiodun stated, “As you embark on this significant spiritual journey to the holy land, your prayers are crucial for sustaining the development initiatives of our administration in Ogun State. Similarly, President Asiwaju Bola Hammed Tinubu requires your prayers to continue his commendable efforts in reshaping our nation’s future.”