By Dr. Aliyu Abdulmeen Abdulhameed, Esq., ACArb.T
The Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS) marked a significant milestone yesterday, with the Executive Council (EXCO) officially designating every Wednesday as a special promotion day for the scheme. As part of this initiative, all HSS staff will wear a unique uniform to symbolize their commitment to the program and its objectives.
The unwavering dedication of HSS staff at all levels—headquarters, states, zones, and management—has been evident. Their collective effort, alongside the crucial support of the EXCO, has transformed what once seemed impossible into a tangible reality. The leadership’s determination to push forward has begun to shift perceptions, paving the way for broader acceptance of the HSS.
A major turning point in this journey has been the response from various State Pilgrims Welfare Boards. During sensitization and interactive sessions, some state executives expressed regret over their initial reluctance to adopt the HSS, acknowledging that misinformation within their forum had misled them. One executive lamented the practice of treating pilgrims’ funds as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) by states, raising ethical concerns over government intervention in funds meant for devout Muslims. Questions were also raised about the alleged investment of these funds in interest-based financial activities, which contradict Islamic financial principles.
Amid these discussions, a growing number of states are now reconsidering their stance and expressing willingness to fully embrace the HSS. This shift signals a crucial turning point in the scheme’s journey, demonstrating its viability as a structured, transparent, and Shari’ah-compliant approach to Hajj financing.
The HSS leadership remains open to constructive criticism and welcomes contributions from all stakeholders to enhance the scheme further. With unwavering commitment and continued support from the EXCO, the goal remains clear: ensuring that the 2025 Hajj season becomes a resounding success under the leadership of Professor Abdullah Salih Usman.