Niger State Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago has urgently requested an investigation into the N90 billion federal government subsidy allocated for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.
Speaking during an interview in Saudi Arabia, Governor Bago expressed concerns about the transparency of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and its financial operations.
“The National Assembly should scrutinize these funds,” Governor Bago emphasized, highlighting doubts about NAHCON’s handling of the subsidy. He further pledged to lead efforts within the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to introduce legislation aimed at dissolving NAHCON’s operational powers.
Governor Bago criticized NAHCON’s dual role as both regulator and operator, asserting that the 2024 Hajj operation had failed. He lamented the loss of two pilgrims from his state in Medina due to preventable medical issues and an additional four deaths caused by extreme heat.
In summary, Governor Bago’s call for transparency and accountability underscores the need for reform within NAHCON to prevent further tragedies during the Hajj pilgrimage.
