The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee investigating the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Muslim Pilgrims Board has raised serious concerns about the management of the N90 billion subsidy allocated to Nigerian pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj exercise.
Rep. Sada Soli, Chairman of the committee, questioned the handling of the subsidy, accusing NAHCON officials of engaging in practices that prioritized their personal interests over the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.
During the hearing, Soli insisted that NAHCON’s Chairman, Abdullahi Saleh Usman, appear in person to address the committee’s queries, despite the matter initially being delegated to the Commissioner for Operations, Prince Olarewaju Elegushi. Soli challenged the commission’s subsidy distribution policies, noting significant inconsistencies. “How come you are giving full subsidy, half subsidy, and some none—and they are all Nigerians?” Soli demanded.
In response, Commissioner Elegushi explained that some pilgrims were excluded from the subsidy due to late registration. However, Soli maintained that all Nigerian pilgrims should be treated fairly and equitably.
Describing the commission as a “very dirty organisation,” Soli emphasised that the committee’s primary responsibility was to ensure that future Hajj operations are well-organised, secure, and spiritually fulfilling for Nigerian pilgrims. “Hajj is a significant spiritual journey for millions of Muslims, including many Nigerians, and pilgrims invest greatly in the experience,” Soli remarked.
He further stated, “Today marks a significant step in our ongoing effort to address the challenges Nigerian pilgrims faced this year and to develop solutions for future pilgrimages. This hearing is not just about identifying problems, but also about working together to find solutions that will ensure future Hajj operations meet the expectations of Nigerian pilgrims.”
Highlighting the sacrifices made by the average Nigerian pilgrim, Soli urged NAHCON to adhere to transparent and disciplined practices. “We are speaking for the average Nigerian who would save money for five years, only to face complications because of simple administrative failings. Be disciplined and do the right thing,” he stated.
The committee also raised concerns regarding discrepancies in Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) disbursements and exchange rate handling. Additionally, the committee noted NAHCON’s preference for foreign airlines over local carriers, further questioning the commission’s priorities and decision-making.
Soli vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into these matters, ensuring a fair and comprehensive resolution. A committee member, Mohammed Umar Bio, expressed his frustration with the commission’s handling of the 2024 Hajj, particularly given the significant government funding of N90 billion. “Despite the substantial funding, NAHCON’s performance this year was disappointingly inadequate,” Bio said, echoing the committee’s dissatisfaction with the commission’s overall handling of the pilgrimage.
