Nigerians have expressed outrage over President Bola Tinubu’s government’s decision to allocate N90 billion for the subsidization of the 2024 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, amidst ongoing economic challenges.
According to a report by Daily Trust, the Nigerian Federal Government approved a N90 billion subsidy for hajj fares, despite the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) requesting a larger subsidy of N230 billion. This decision has sparked criticism and raised concerns about the allocation of funds during a time of economic hardship.
Last year, NAHCON set the hajj fare at N4.9 million per pilgrim, based on an exchange rate of N897 per US dollar. However, in a recent statement, the commission announced a fare increase of N1,918,032.91, bringing the total amount to N6.8 million.
Nigerians have taken to social media to voice their disapproval of the government’s allocation of funds for the pilgrimage. Many have questioned the necessity of subsidizing hajj fares when basic necessities such as food and electricity are unaffordable for many citizens.
@Sarki criticized the government for prioritizing hajj subsidies over addressing the needs of the population, stating, “The FG using N90 billion to subsidize hajj fare while Nigerians can’t afford two square meals or even necessities like electricity is crazy.”
Similarly, @Yelesowore expressed frustration with the government’s decision, calling out the leadership for neglecting the welfare of its citizens. He stated, “Nigeria continues to be unfortunate by (s)electing functional morons as leaders; how on earth do you have 13 million out-of-school children, abandon them with begging bowls and then turn around to subsidize those going for religious ceremonies in the wealthiest oil-rich Gulf state, Saudi Arabia.”
@Omotayo of Lagos criticized the subsidy as unnecessary, highlighting that individuals should only undertake the hajj pilgrimage if they can afford to do so. He added, “Subsidizing Hajj when the masses are struggling to eat and survive is unnecessary. I’m sure those who want to go for Hajj already have more than enough money in their bank account.”
@realmuhammadd echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that those who can afford the pilgrimage should be allowed to go without government subsidies. He stated, “They should let whoever can afford it go to Hajj. This doesn’t make sense.”
The allocation of N90 billion for hajj subsidies has sparked a debate among Nigerians, with many questioning the government’s priorities and calling for a reevaluation of resource allocation during times of economic hardship.
