The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (KSPWA) has announced that it has refunded over 3,000 pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj, following the directive of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
In a statement issued by the agency’s spokesperson, Yunusa Mohammed Abdullahi, and made available to journalists in Kaduna on Sunday, it was revealed that each pilgrim received a refund of N61,080, with payments deposited directly into their respective bank accounts.
NAHCON explained that the refunds were necessitated by an electricity supply disruption during the pilgrims’ stay at Muna, which affected cooling systems and caused significant discomfort.
Acknowledging the frustrations of those still awaiting their refunds, Abdullahi expressed appreciation for their patience, attributing the delays to incomplete or missing account details provided by some pilgrims.
The statement assured stakeholders that another round of refunds is scheduled for next week, with the agency working diligently to ensure all eligible pilgrims receive their payments.
He emphasized the need for prompt submission of account details and urged 2023 Hajj pilgrims who have not yet received their refunds to contact the Registration Officer in their respective local government areas.
“These details are essential for swift processing and disbursement,” he stated.
Quoting the Executive Chairman of the agency, Malam Salihu Abubakar, he added, “We recognize the importance of these refunds and remain committed to completing the process efficiently.”
The statement further noted that while the agency continues to finalize the 2023 refunds, preparations for the upcoming 2024 Hajj are already underway.
A swift conclusion of this refund process will allow the agency to allocate more resources and attention to ensuring a smooth and well-coordinated pilgrimage for the next Hajj.
