LAGOS CALLS ON HAJJ PILGRIMS TO PROCESS TRAVEL ALLOWANCE

The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, has invited Y2018 Hajj intending pilgrims to come forward and process their Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) for the pilgrimage.

The announcement was made by the Honourable Commissioner for Home Affairs and Lagos State Amir-ul-Hajj, Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef during a meeting with the 19 coordinators appointed to manage the affairs of Lagos State pilgrims.

According to him, pilgrims will be given the opportunity to exchange a minimum of N244,000 for $800 at the official rate of N305 to a dollar as directed by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

He enjoined intending pilgrims to take advantage of the exchange rate and time to make proper arrangements for their Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) at the official rate.

“Only fully paid pilgrims are entitled to the official rate and must come with their receipts of payment,” he said.

Dr. AbdulLateef also enjoined Muslims to use the fasting period to seek Allah’s forgiveness and mercy for themselves and the entire Muslim faithful.

“You should invest your money and time to propagate good deeds and help your Muslim Brothers and Sisters as much as you can, this is more rewarding in this Blessed Month of Ramadan” the Commissioner stated.

In his contribution, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. Muftau Okoya expressed the mandate of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) that all intending pilgrims for 2018 Hajj exercise must possess a National Identity Card.

He expressed the determination of the State Government to ensure a successful Hajj exercise through well trained, committed, experienced and respectful State government officials.