The Lagos State Government has made good on its promise to pay the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in US dollars to its 1,562 pilgrims currently making the 2022 Holy Pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Amir-ul-Hajj and Commissioner of Internal Affairs, Prince Anofiu Olanrewaju Elegushi, informed the pilgrims in Mecca that each of the pilgrims would receive $800 to fulfill the promise made earlier during the seminar at the Blue Roof, Lagos Television Complex , was held. Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos on June 12, 2022.
Prince Elegushi added that the total BTA amount that would be paid to the 1,562 pilgrims is US$1,249,600.
While dispelling the unfounded rumor that the state government plans to withdraw their money, the commissioner stressed that the delay was caused by the strict conditions attached to the money being released to the beneficiaries.
However, he thanked Allah that the challenges were overcome and the travel allowance was released for distribution to the pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Elegushi expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support and help of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, during the critical period, appealing to pilgrims to spend their money wisely.
While urging pilgrims to pray for peace and tranquility in Nigeria, particularly against insecurity, kidnapping, banditry, riots and other vices plaguing the country, Elegushi urged Muslim believers to look to God’s face for the success of the current government in the state to see.
Present at the meeting were the Governor’s Special Advisor on Islamic Affairs, Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, and the Chief Executive, Engr. Imam Shakiru Ayinde Gafar.
Other board members present are AbdulWaheed Lolade Shonibare (Ikeja Division); Alhaji Mojeed Sanni (Ikorodu Division) and Alhaji Yusuf Ara (Epe Division).
