Kaduna Pilgrims Receive N76 Million Refund Ahead of Hajj

The Kaduna State Pilgrim Welfare Agency, led by Executive Chairman Malam Salihu, announced the disbursement of N76 million to pilgrims, equating to a refund of 123 Saudi riyals per pilgrim. This decision was made during an exclusive interview in Makkah, where Malam Salihu explained that the basic travel allowance for pilgrims was pegged at N500, which was affected by the fluctuating exchange rate.

The agency noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria provided the pilgrims with a travel allowance at an exchange rate of N1,350 to the dollar. The airlift of pilgrims from Kaduna to Saudi Arabia is scheduled to begin on June 15, following the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria's (NAHCON) timetable.

Malam Salihu emphasized the importance of adhering to luggage regulations, allowing each pilgrim two bags of 23 kilograms and one hand luggage not exceeding eight kilograms. He also warned against carrying sharp objects and liquids on board.