Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has addressed the tension among Ogun State Muslim pilgrims by covering the shortfall in their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

NAHCON had used an exchange rate of 1,252.01 per dollar to calculate the hajj fare, including a BTA of 500 USD per pilgrim. However, the CBN released the BTA at an exchange rate of 1,530.86 per dollar, resulting in each pilgrim receiving only 415 USD instead of the 500 USD initially proposed.

To ensure each of the 934 pilgrims received the full 500 USD at the new exchange rate, the differential amounted to N119,560,712.70. Governor Abiodun promptly intervened by paying this differential, ensuring all state pilgrims can perform their hajj rites comfortably and stress-free.

This intervention allows the pilgrims to receive the full 500 USD as agreed, easing the anxiety caused by the sudden exchange rate increase.

Sheik Iskeel Lawal, Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, expressed gratitude for the governor’s timely intervention and prayed for the administration’s continued success.

Governor Abiodun also urged the pilgrims to be patriotic and pray fervently for the state and Nigeria, highlighting the need for robust spiritual support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to transform the nation.

“As you embark on this important spiritual journey, pray for the sustainability of our development efforts in Ogun State. Also, our President, Asiwaju Bola Hammed Tinubu, needs your prayers to continue his courageous efforts to improve our nation,” Abiodun stated.