Governor Radda Advocates Progressive Hajj Reforms and Enhanced Pilgrims’ Welfare
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the Hajj experience for Nigerian pilgrims by advocating for critical reforms and enhanced welfare measures.
During a courtesy visit by the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman, at the Governor’s Lodge, Abuja, Governor Radda emphasized the need for sustainable solutions to the financial and logistical challenges faced by pilgrims.
Reflecting on the 2024 Hajj operations in Katsina, he highlighted the effects of currency depreciation on pilgrimage costs and proposed innovative solutions, including reducing the Hajj duration from 40 days to three or four weeksto minimize expenses.
“I question why our pilgrims are required to spend up to 40 days in Saudi Arabia after Hajj, while those on international Hajj programs complete theirs in just 5 to 7 days,” the Governor remarked.
He also stressed the importance of preventive healthcare, revealing that Katsina State had to supplement NAHCON’s medical supplies in 2024. He strongly recommended that malaria medication be administered before departure to prevent health complications during the pilgrimage.
Governor Radda further showcased his administration’s unwavering support for pilgrims, allocating over ₦500 millionfor animal sacrifice (Hadya) and increasing the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) from $400 to $4,500, ensuring financial relief for Katsina pilgrims.
On financial security, the Governor advocated for safeguards against electronic payment fraud and emphasized the need for federal government intervention in subsidizing Hajj exchange rates. He assured NAHCON of his plan to engage fellow Northwest governors to collectively present the issue to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a lasting solution.
Professor Usman, in his remarks, praised Governor Radda’s proactive approach and disclosed that NAHCON had successfully saved approximately ₦50 billion for pilgrims by negotiating with service providers in Saudi Arabia.
“We initially projected the 2025 Hajj fare at over ₦10 million, but due to our efforts, we have reduced it to ₦8 million and are still negotiating for further reductions,” Professor Usman announced.
He further highlighted aviation charges as a major cost component, constituting 65% of the total Hajj cost, and expressed optimism about securing waivers and reductions to make Hajj more affordable.
Governor Radda reaffirmed his support for NAHCON’s cost-reduction initiatives and pledged to work with the federal government to implement further financial and structural reforms to improve the pilgrimage experience for Nigerian Muslims.
