Nigerians have criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for allocating N90 billion to subsidize the 2024 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia amid prevailing economic challenges. According to a report by Daily Trust on Saturday, the Nigerian Federal Government disbursed the said amount to subsidize hajj fares, although the commission had initially requested a subsidy of N230 billion, with only N90 billion approved.

Recalling past events, NAHCON had set a fare of N4.9 million per pilgrim in December last year, based on an exchange rate of N897 per US dollar. However, in a statement released last Sunday by the spokesperson, Fatima Usara, the Hajj commission increased the fare by N1,918,032.91, raising the total amount to N6.8 million.

Meanwhile, Nigerians on various platforms expressed discontent with the Federal Government’s decision to subsidize the 2024 hajj with N90 billion, deeming it unnecessary and a misuse of funds given the prevailing economic hardships. Reactions from individuals included:

@Sarki: Criticized the use of N90 billion to subsidize hajj fares while many Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities like food and electricity.

@Yelesowore: Described the government’s actions as irresponsible, particularly given the significant number of out-of-school children and widespread poverty in the country.

@Omotayo of Lagos: Regarded the subsidy as inappropriate, stating that according to religious principles, only those who can afford it should undertake the pilgrimage.

@realmuhammadd: Suggested that the Hajj should be accessible only to those who can afford it, questioning the rationale behind the subsidy.