The government of Niger State, located in north-central Nigeria, has pledged its full support to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board in order to ensure the success of the upcoming 2024 Hajj exercise. This commitment was announced by Abdullahi Isah, the Chairman of the House Committee on Religious Affairs at the State House of Assembly, during the commencement ceremony for the state’s Hajj preparations.
Isah commended the board for their meticulous and early preparations, recognizing that such proactive measures are crucial for efficient management and to prevent any challenges that may hinder the smooth execution of the state’s Hajj exercise. He also urged the staff of the board to serve as exemplary ambassadors, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to achieve overall success.
Highlighting the significance of creating a conducive environment for the 2024 Hajj exercise, Abdullahi Isah called upon the Administrative and Professional Officers of the Welfare Board (APOWs) in the local government areas to fulfill their responsibilities diligently and work cohesively. He emphasized the value of their collective expertise in ensuring a successful Hajj pilgrimage.
Expressing gratitude for the legislative support, Alhaji Mohammed Awwal Aliyu, the Executive Secretary of the Niger State Pilgrims Welfare Board, officially announced the commencement of the collection of 2024 Hajj fares. Aliyu revealed that the National Hajj Commission had allocated 3,592 seats for the state in the 2024 Hajj exercise, with a deadline for registration set for December 2023.
Aliyu assured the intending pilgrims that the board would thoroughly investigate any complaints and find lasting solutions before the full commencement of the operation. He reiterated the board’s policy of excluding cash collections, stating that the only accepted method of payment is through banks, with an initial deposit of four million five hundred thousand Naira. The board also does not sell forms as part of its registration procedures.
The Executive Secretary expressed confidence in the Chairman of the House Committee and acknowledged their collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the board’s operations.
Alhaji Abusufyan Ahamad Sirisiri, Chairman of the APOWs Forum and APOW of the Chanchaga local government area, commended the early launch of the exercise and urged his colleagues to carry out their duties diligently. He also appealed to the board to address the financial needs of APOWs, emphasizing the importance of providing additional resources for their operations and arranging in-house training for the staff.
The event concluded with the Chairman of the House Committee distributing seating allocations to the APOWs from the 25 local governments in the state.
For intending pilgrims who wish to participate in the 2024 Hajj exercise, the National Hajj Commission has set December 2023 as the deadline for registration.
