Article of Faith
State Governors’ Misplaced Priorities: Hajj Subsidies Vs Public Welfare -By Yasir Shehu Adam
In light of the economic hardships facing many Nigerians, where hunger and educational deficiencies prevail, redirecting resources to address these pressing issues should take precedence over subsidizing Hajj expenses. It’s time for state governors to reassess their priorities and allocate resources where they are most needed for the well-being of all citizens.
In recent reports, Nigerian state governors have allocated substantial funds towards subsidizing Hajj expenses for intending pilgrims, raising questions about their priorities.
Kano State government, for instance, allocated a whopping 1.4 billion to subsidize 500,000 per pilgrim for 2,096 registered individuals. Similarly, Jigawa also paid 1m naira subsidy for all 1,260 intending pilgrims who completed their payments and Bauchi states followed suit with subsidies of 2.5 billion respectively.
The other states who subsidizes the hajj fees are Kebbi, Kogi, Ogun, Lagos, Katsina, Osun, plateau state and others.
While the gesture aims to facilitate religious obligations, it begs the question: Are these funds being allocated wisely? Instead of prioritizing public welfare, such as settling overdue salaries and pensions, governors are investing in Hajj subsidies.
Furthermore, many intending pilgrims are repeat visitors, raising concerns about the necessity of these subsidies. Redirecting these funds towards providing food aid or improving educational infrastructure, particularly in the northern region where conditions are dire, could have a more significant impact on the populace.
In light of the economic hardships facing many Nigerians, where hunger and educational deficiencies prevail, redirecting resources to address these pressing issues should take precedence over subsidizing Hajj expenses. It’s time for state governors to reassess their priorities and allocate resources where they are most needed for the well-being of all citizens.
It is time for state governors to recognize the transformative potential of education and reallocate resources accordingly. By prioritizing education, we not only invest in the future of our nation but also lay the foundation for lasting peace and stability. I emphasize that the path to overcoming insecurity begins with investing in education.
Yasir Shehu Adam ( Dan Liman), a young journalists writer from Bauchi. Email ysdanliman@gmail.com.
