KADUNA — The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has commenced the refund of 123 Saudi Riyals to each pilgrim, following a favorable shift in foreign exchange rates during the 2026 Hajj operations.
Understanding the Refund
The agency’s Executive Chairman, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, explained the breakdown of the refund during a briefing at the Ibrahim Khalil residence. The adjustment stems from fluctuations between the Naira and the US Dollar during the airlift period:
Initial Peg: The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had originally pegged the $500 Basic Traveling Allowance (BTA) at an exchange rate of N1,443 per dollar, totaling N721,500 per pilgrim.
Market Appreciation: When the Naira subsequently appreciated to approximately N1,350.74 per dollar, the BTA cost dropped to N675,370, resulting in a surplus of N46,130 per pilgrim.
The Conversion: The agency converted this surplus at a rate of N375 per Saudi Riyal, resulting in a refund of 123 Saudi Riyals plus an additional balance of N5 per pilgrim.
Distribution Process
The agency began distributing the refunds on Monday, June 1, 2026, prioritizing pilgrims who arrived on the first flight. Malam Salihu noted that the additional N5 balance would be settled for pilgrims upon their return to Nigeria if they choose to collect it.
The transparent handling of these funds has been met with praise from Kaduna pilgrims, who commended the Special Hajj Committee for its commitment to accountability throughout the Hajj process.
