The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has established a committee to oversee the disbursement of refunds to pilgrims who participated in the 2023 Hajj.
These refunds, provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), are being distributed to the respective State Pilgrims Welfare Boards.
The decision was announced during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Agency’s headquarters on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The meeting brought together key officials, including the Agency’s management, Hajj registration officers (secretaries) from the 23 local government areas, and the Assistant Hajj Registration Officers (AROs).
The Chairman of the Agency, Aliyu Musa, who was represented by the Director of Administration and acting Secretary of the Agency, Ladan Ibrahim, explained that the committee’s role is to ensure proper monitoring of the screening and payment processes. He emphasized that the committee would ensure all eligible pilgrims receive their refunds in line with the specified guidelines.
The chairman also directed local government officials to establish similar sub-committees at their levels for better coordination. He warned that strict compliance with the disbursement procedures was essential, as anti-corruption agencies such as the EFCC and ICPC would be monitoring the exercise closely.
During the meeting, the Director of Hajj Operations, Abubakar Cika, outlined the required documents for beneficiaries, including international passports, travel documents, proof of previous payments, and bank account details. He emphasized the importance of accuracy in documentation to avoid delays.
The Director of Finance, Nasiru Abubakar, assured attendees that payments would be processed immediately upon successful verification of beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Deputy Director of Administration, Surajo Bello Sifawa, clarified that only those who performed the 2023 Hajj are eligible for the refunds. He stressed the need for valid documentation and added that any complaints, such as lost items or the death of a beneficiary, must be accompanied by police reports or other verifiable evidence.
The meeting also featured contributions from the secretaries and AROs, providing valuable insights to ensure the success of the exercise.