Arabi, at a post-hajj press briefing in Abuja on Monday, noted that about four victims succumbed to a heat wave experienced during the pilgrimage.
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Mallam Jalal Arabi, has reported that no fewer than 30 Nigerians died during the recent hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Arabi, at a post-hajj press briefing in Abuja on Monday, noted that about four victims succumbed to a heat wave experienced during the pilgrimage.
He said, “The 2024 hajj faced one of the harshest weather conditions ever recorded. Fortunately, we were informed in advance.
“This information was included in our sensitization efforts, and we provided necessary safety tools such as umbrellas, innovative fans, and other items to ensure pilgrims were safeguarded.
“Despite our efforts, if someone’s time is up, it’s up. We tried our best to prevent deliberate exposure to the weather. Although we lost pilgrims, not all deaths were due to the heat wave.
“Of the 30 we lost, approximately four or five can be attributed to the heat wave. We pray Allah accepts their souls.”
Arabi also detailed the circumstances leading to President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a N90billion subsidy for the pilgrimage, following an increase in hajj fares that saw pilgrims paying up to N8 million, amidst issues with private tour operators.
He said, “By the final deadline of February 12, 2024, the unforeseen spike in foreign exchange rates had necessitated a fresh adjustment of the hajj fare from the initially announced N4.9million.
“The financial projection after the foreign exchange liberalization indicated that each pilgrim would need to add about N3.6million to the initial payment, prompting urgent intervention.
“NAHCON engaged with the Federal Government, appealing for a concessionary exchange rate of N850 per dollar for the hajj fare.
“This appeal, supported by other stakeholders, led to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approving N90 billion instead.”
Arabi explained that NAHCON’s distribution strategy ensured all stakeholders involved in the 2024 hajj benefited from the government’s support.
“Each pilgrim received N1,637,369.87 from the N90 billion, except those under the Hajj Savings Scheme, who benefited more.
“Consequently, all registered intending pilgrims, except those on HSS, were required to pay a balance of N1,918,094.87 as the N90 billion was insufficient to cover the full cost.
“New registrants had to pay N8,454,464.74, being exempt from the Federal Government’s intervention.
“Eligible officials and stakeholders from all government tiers also benefited from the subsidy.”
The chairman emphasised that the hajj subsidy was transparently utilised and assured improvements in the processes to ensure equitable access to facilities and services for all future pilgrims.