The National Hajj Commission has been called upon to extend the payment deadline for this year’s exercise to accommodate more intending pilgrims.
The acting secretary Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Ladan Ibrahim, made the call in Sokoto, stating that only 1,700 intending pilgrims from the state had made the initial deposit for this year’s exercise,
Alhaji Ladan Ibrahim, during a media briefing in his office, noted that this is a far cry from the 5,216 seats allocated to the state.
He, however, expressed confidence that more prospective pilgrims, especially those from rural areas, would complete their payments before the final deadline.
Alhaji Laadan also revealed that discussions are ongoing with the state government for additional financial support to assist pilgrims in meeting their obligations.
“Last year, the governor provided financial assistance to pilgrims. We are hopeful that similar support will be granted this year,” he stated.
Highlighting the progress made so far, he said, “We have already secured accommodation for our pilgrims in both Mecca and Medina, finalised negotiations with catering services in Mecca, and arranged comfortable camp facilities. So far, the state has remitted over ₦5 billion to NAHCON.”
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