Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has approved N2.19 billion as subsidy for the 2,290 intending Muslim pilgrims from the state for the 2024 hajj.

The governor said the action is to facilitate the beneficiaries’ religious obligations and enhance their welfare in the holy land.

He explained that the move was sequel to the recent announcement by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCOM) on the adjustment of the 2024 hajj fare where intending pilgrims are to pay an additional N1.918 million.

Against this backdrop, Governor Mohammed said his administration has resolved to subsidize each pilgrim with the sum of N959,025 which stands as 50 percent of the additional fare for the 2,290 intending pilgrims from the state.

In a statement issued by his media side, Comrade Mukhtar Gidado, the governor said he had approved the immediate release of the sum of N2.196 billion for the payment of the fare subsidy.

He said the development underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that Muslim faithful in Bauchi State have the opportunity to fulfill their sacred duty of performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam.

He said, “By subsidizing the hajj fare, the government aims to alleviate the financial burden on intending pilgrims, thereby enabling more citizens to participate in this revered religious obligation. This initiative also aligns with the government’s efforts to promote inclusive governance and ensure that every citizen has equal access to opportunities and resources.”

The governor charged the intending pilgrims to perform the hajj with sincerity, devotion, and reverence.

He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the religious freedom and practices of all citizens and pledged to continue working towards the welfare and development of the state.