Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appealed to the Federal Government to consider reducing the fare for the Hajj pilgrimage, citing the ongoing economic challenges faced by citizens.
The Governor made the call during an event organized by the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board to distribute funds refunded by the Saudi Arabian government following a power outage during the 2023 Hajj operations.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, on Monday, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude to the Saudi Arabian government for their generous gesture and commitment to humanity.
He said, “I commend the Saudi Arabian government for this concern for humanity, and I will be sending an appreciation letter to them through their consulate here in Kano.”
Governor Yusuf also extended his appreciation to the National Hajj Commission for its timely and prudent handling of the refund process. He highlighted the exemplary performance of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board in managing the Hajj operations, which were recognized as the best in the country.
He added, “I urge the Board to continue the good work, as it is a reflection of our collective efforts to serve our people with excellence.”
The Governor further shared that he had recently visited Saudi Arabia for a lesser Hajj and to begin preparations for the next pilgrimage. His visit aimed to identify areas where the state government can provide additional support to improve the Hajj experience for future pilgrims.
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, who heads the 2024 Kano Hajj Delegates, also commended Governor Yusuf for his unwavering support to the pilgrims before, during, and after the Hajj operations.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Laminu Rabiu Danbaffa, disclosed that the total amount refunded by the Saudi government to the state for disbursement to pilgrims was 375 million naira.
Governor Yusuf’s call for a reduction in the Hajj fare underscores the commitment of his administration to ease the financial burden on Kano residents while ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience.