Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Mallam Jalal Arabi, revealed that during the recently concluded hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, at least 30 Nigerians lost their lives.
Speaking at a post-hajj press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Arabi mentioned that about four individuals passed away due to the intense heat wave experienced during the hajj proceedings.
Arabi stated, “The 2024 hajj faced some of the toughest weather conditions ever seen. However, we were well prepared in advance.
“We conducted thorough sensitization and provided necessary tools for their safety, including umbrellas, innovative fans, and other precautionary measures.
“Despite our efforts to prevent exposure to extreme weather, we sadly lost some pilgrims. Not all deaths were directly linked to the heat wave.
“Out of the 30 fatalities, approximately four or five could be attributed to the heat wave. May Allah accept their souls.”
The NAHCON chairman also shed light on the circumstances leading to President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a N90bn subsidy for the pilgrimage, following the hajj fare hike that saw pilgrims paying up to N8m, along with challenges faced with private tour operators.
He explained, “With the final deadline of 12th February 2024, unexpected spikes in foreign exchange rates complicated matters, necessitating a revised hajj fare of N4.9m.
“After forex rate fluctuations, each pilgrim needed an additional N3.6m, prompting urgent action.
“NAHCON engaged with the Federal Government to address the high forex costs, requesting a concessionary rate of N850 for the dollar component of the hajj fare.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu promptly approved N90bn to alleviate the situation.”
Arabi mentioned that NAHCON implemented a distribution plan to ensure all stakeholders benefited from the government’s support during the 2024 hajj.
“Each pilgrim received N1,637,369.87 from the N90bn, except Hajj Savings Scheme participants who received more.
“Registered pilgrims, excluding HSS members, had to pay a balance of N1,918,094.87 due to insufficient N90bn funds.
“New registrants paid N8,454,464.74, exempt from the government’s assistance. Eligible officials and stakeholders from all government levels benefitted from the N90bn subsidy,” he added.
Arabi assured that the hajj subsidy was transparently managed and pledged to enhance processes for future pilgrimages to ensure fair access to services for all pilgrims.