The Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Faruku Aliyu Yaro Enabo, has urged prospective pilgrims for the upcoming 2025 Hajj to expedite efforts to pay their fares before December ends.
He stated this on Monday while addressing Journalists shortly after a meeting to deliberate on the fund refunded by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The Chairman said NAHCON has extended the payment deadline to the end of December 2024.
He encouraged pilgrims to ensure early payments to secure better accommodation, timely transportation, and other essential services during the Hajj exercise.
He also pointed out that NAHCON has refunded over N301.56 million to the 4,936 pilgrims from Kebbi State who performed the 2023 Hajj.
“Each of the 4,936 pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj exercise will receive a refund of ₦61,080, the money has already been deposited into the agency account for onward distribution to the beneficiaries.
“The refund is being made in compliance with NAHCON’s directive to compensate pilgrims for services not rendered during the 2023 Hajj.
“Already, the Governor, His Excellency, Comrade Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu has directed me to initiate the refund process to the pilgrims, with the Chairmen of the 21 LGAs serving as witnesses and confirming the process,” he added.
He then admonished the Council Chairmen to monitor the exercise to ensure that all the affected pilgrims get their money adding that the agency would involve all the security boards in the state to ensure a smooth and transparent exercise.
Faruku explained that the board will ensure all eligible pilgrims receive their refunds.
He then commended Governor Nasir Idris for supporting the board in carrying out its responsibilities diligently, thereby ensuring good governance in the state.
