Photo of the food allegedly served in Hajj Photo of the food allegedly served in Hajj..READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj have expressed their dissatisfaction with the quality of food provided, despite each having paid N8 million for the journey.
A viral photo on social media, shared by a Facebook user, depicted a meager breakfast of three bean cakes (akara) and a small portion of pap served to the pilgrims on Tuesday morning.
The user wrote, “After paying N8 million for Hajj, this is the breakfast our pilgrims are receiving! Some have even started begging for money to buy food because the remaining $300 promised to them in Saudi (out of $500) has not been delivered by the authorities!”
In response, a staff member of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Muhammad Ahmad, stated that the Nigerian authorities are investigating the issue.
The staff member said, “NAHCON is currently on-site gathering information for a thorough investigation. While NAHCON fully provides for feeding and accommodation in Madinah, it only supervises these services in Makkah. Nevertheless, the Commission’s officials are committed to uncovering the truth and taking the necessary actions.”
It was previously reported that the Nigerian government had spent N90 billion to subsidize the cost of the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage for its citizens.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima disclosed this information at the inauguration of the 2024 National Hajj operation at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
Shettima was quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria as saying, “This year, we faced significant challenges in setting the final hajj fare due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.”
“President Bola Tinubu has been working tirelessly to stabilize our local currency, which has brought some relief to our pilgrims and other Nigerians. His efforts have led to a reduction in the fare. Consequently, the President authorized the release of N90 billion to subsidize this year’s hajj costs.”
“In light of this, the government carefully selected individuals of integrity, with proven administrative skills and a history of selfless service, to oversee the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria for the benefit of Nigerian pilgrims.”
“The government closely monitors all preparations to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of our pilgrims, both in Saudi Arabia and at home, before they begin their journey.”...Continue The Full Reading.>’.
