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Tinubu approves N90bn Hajj subsidy, clears N24bn airline debt
Tinubu approves N90bn Hajj subsidy, clears N24bn airline debt
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has highlighted key interventions by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at easing the financial burden of Nigerian pilgrims and stabilizing Hajj operations.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, NAHCON Chairman, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman, disclosed that President Tinubu approved a ₦90 billion subsidy to support Nigerian pilgrims performing the 2024 Hajj. He noted that this intervention was a one-time approval for the year, designed to cushion the effects of rising costs and ensure that more Muslims were able to fulfill their religious obligation.
In addition, the President also settled ₦24 billion in outstanding payments owed to airlines that facilitated the 2023 Hajj operations.
He said that despite economic headwinds and logistical challenges, Nigeria’s Hajj operations have achieved their mandate for Nigerians.
Similarly, the commission refunded N5.3 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for unprovided services during the 2023 Hajj.
He announced that the commission has rolled out policies to reduce Hajj fares for intending pilgrims.
“One of the most significant interventions was President Tinubu’s approval of a N90 billion subsidy for the 2024 Hajj exercise to cushion the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations on pilgrims.
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“In addition, the President approved N24 billion to settle outstanding payments to 2023 Hajj airlines, rescuing local carriers from imminent collapse. The Federal Government also intervened in negotiations with airlines to accept payments in local currency, thereby shielding pilgrims from the shocks of Forex volatility.
“The administration has also expanded the Hajj Savings Scheme by partnering with more banks, allowing intending pilgrims, especially youth and low-income earners, to gradually save towards the sacred journey. Professor Usman described this as a legacy tool that will serve generations to come by instilling financial planning and easing the burden of preparation.
“In line with the anti-corruption stance of the present administration, NAHCON refunded ₦5.3 billion to State Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards for unprovided services during the 2023 Hajj. This act of transparency restored confidence, promoted accountability, and underscored the Commission’s commitment to efficient and honest service delivery.
“The Commission also amended contracts with service providers, aligning costs with the actual number of pilgrims totalling 52,544, down from an earlier projection of 95,000. This proactive adjustment prevented waste of funds and led to reductions in fares for the 2025 Hajj.
“Pilgrims’ welfare also received a boost, with 98 percent of medical supplies provided by the Federal Government. Health workers were fully mobilised to deliver round-the-clock care, ensuring the well-being of Nigerian pilgrims throughout the exercise. Cost reductions were further achieved across several service components, with pilgrims benefiting from a 720 SAR reduction for Mashair services, 200 SAR savings on Madinah accommodation, a 303 SAR reduction in transport fares, and airfare reductions of $116 for the North-Central/North-West, $149 for the North-East, and $138 for the South.
Professor Usman concluded that the progress made so far is a reflection of President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and empathy for Nigerian pilgrims.
“It is to be noted that in an attempt to reduce the 2025 Hajj fare, NAHCON amended its contract with Mashariq AL-Dhahabia to align services with the actual number of registered pilgrims (52,544), down from the initial projection of 95,000. This proactive adjustment prevented waste of funds as well as the reduction of the Hajj fare for pilgrims.”
Tinubu approves N90bn Hajj subsidy, clears N24bn airline debt
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Benue School Harassment: Authorities Investigate Assault on Female Student at Seat of Wisdom Aliade
Benue School Harassment: Authorities Investigate Assault on Female Student at Seat of Wisdom Aliade
Authorities in Benue State have launched an investigation following a disturbing incident at Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Aliade, where a female student was reportedly harassed and assaulted by her peers. The event has raised serious concerns over student safety and supervision in the state’s schools.
According to preliminary reports, the victim, a female student at the school, was subjected to inappropriate treatment by a group of classmates while on school premises. The incident came to light after other students alerted the school authorities, prompting the administration to notify local law enforcement.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that officers have begun a formal investigation. Police spokespersons said statements are being taken from witnesses, and the identities of those involved are being verified. Officials have emphasized that the safety and well-being of all students remain a top priority.
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School management has pledged full cooperation with authorities, stating that disciplinary measures will be taken against any student found responsible, while also offering counselling services for both the victim and other students affected by the incident. Parents and community leaders have condemned the act, describing it as unacceptable and a violation of students’ rights.
Child protection experts have stressed that incidents like this highlight the urgent need for robust safety policies, awareness programs, and reporting mechanisms within schools. They recommend that schools implement regular workshops on respect, personal boundaries, and peer conflict resolution to prevent future occurrences.
The case has sparked broader discussions across Benue State about the responsibilities of school administrators, teachers, and guardians in protecting students from harassment and ensuring a safe learning environment.
Authorities have assured the public that the investigation will be thorough, and anyone found culpable will face legal consequences in accordance with Nigerian law.
Benue School Harassment: Authorities Investigate Assault on Female Student at Seat of Wisdom Aliade
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Violent Protest in Ogoja After Man Allegedly Kills Girlfriend in Cross River
Violent Protest in Ogoja After Man Allegedly Kills Girlfriend in Cross River
Tension has gripped Ogoja following the alleged killing of a 26-year-old woman, Moshie Igu, by her boyfriend, sparking a violent protest in Cross River and renewed concerns over gender-based violence in Nigeria.
According to the Nigeria Police Force, the suspect, 35-year-old Malime Ejor, allegedly carried out the attack in the early hours of Saturday, March 28, 2026, at a farm in Nwang Village, Ekajuk community.
Police spokesperson Sunday Eitokpah disclosed that preliminary findings show the suspect reportedly lured the victim to a nearby stream, where he attacked her with a machete, leading to her death.
Operatives responded swiftly after the incident was reported, arresting the suspect and rescuing him from an attempted mob action by enraged youths at the scene. He is currently in custody, while arrangements are being made to deposit the victim’s remains at the General Hospital mortuary in Ogoja. The police further confirmed that the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Calabar for a thorough and discreet investigation.
The situation escalated on Monday when hundreds of women and youths from Nwang I & II and other parts of the Ekajuk clan staged a protest, demanding the release of the suspect. The demonstrators marched to the Area Command in Ogoja, but the protest soon turned violent, with some protesters attacking officers and vandalising property, including a vehicle and parts of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) facility.
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Security operatives were forced to deploy smoke canisters to disperse the crowd, while at least eight individuals were arrested in connection with the unrest. Authorities say the situation is now under control, and in a bid to ease tensions, those arrested during the protest were later released to a community leader.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to ensuring justice, stressing that the suspect remains in custody and will face due legal process. With the case set for transfer to SCID, authorities are expected to deepen investigations and prepare for prosecution.
The incident has sparked fresh conversations around femicide, domestic violence, and the increasing cases of relationship-related killings in Nigeria. Analysts warn that attempts by communities to interfere in criminal investigations—such as demanding the release of suspects—could undermine justice and embolden perpetrators.
Residents and stakeholders have been urged to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, as calls for justice for the victim continue to grow.
Violent Protest in Ogoja After Man Allegedly Kills Girlfriend in Cross River
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Gunmen Attack Wedding in Kaduna, Kill 13, Abduct Several Guests
Gunmen Attack Wedding in Kaduna, Kill 13, Abduct Several Guests
Suspected bandits have attacked a wedding ceremony in Kahir village, located in Kagarko Local Government Area, killing at least 13 people and abducting an unspecified number of guests.
The incident occurred late Sunday night in Kaduna State when heavily armed assailants reportedly stormed the venue and opened fire on attendees gathered for the celebration.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers arrived at about 11:47 p.m., shooting indiscriminately inside the wedding hall and causing widespread panic. A resident, Shehu Bala, said some guests sustained gunshot injuries during the assault.
According to reports, the gunmen operated for nearly an hour without resistance, leaving several casualties in their wake.
Injured victims were initially taken to Kagarko General Hospital, while those with critical injuries were later transferred to medical facilities in Kaduna for advanced treatment.
A community leader confirmed that 13 people lost their lives in the attack and have since been buried. He added that efforts are ongoing to ascertain the exact number of those abducted by the assailants.
The attackers were also said to have looted shops within the community, carting away food items, provisions, and drugs from a local chemist during the raid.
“The entire community was thrown into panic due to the heavy gunfire, forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes,” the community leader said.
Police authorities in Kagarko have confirmed the incident but stated that investigations are still ongoing, particularly regarding the number of abducted victims. The spokesperson of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Hassan Mansur, also confirmed the attack, noting that a comprehensive report would be released upon conclusion of investigations.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, alongside a serving senator, visited injured victims receiving treatment at the hospital in Kagarko.
Gunmen Attack Wedding in Kaduna, Kill 13, Abduct Several Guests
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