The 2016 pilgrims will get exchange rate for their Basic Traveling Allowance (BTA) at N197/dollar. This is against the backdrop of about N350/dollar in the black market.

Engineer Namadi M. Musa, Director General, Kaduna State Interfaith Bureau, disclosed this on Saturday while addressing intending pilgrims at the opening of 2016 Hajj Enlightenment Programme at Rigachikun Centre, Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State.

He said the Federal Government provided such relief to pilgrims in view of current scarcity and hike on Foreign Exchange.

Musa said because of this assistance by the President Muhammadu Buhari administration, the Kaduna State Government has also pegged the Maximum Hajj Seat at N920,000 for 2016 intending pilgrims.

He said government will soon make official announcement including those of other categories of seats through the media.

“This year, three airline companies will be provided to ensure timely airlift of pilgrims within stipulated schedules,” he said.

In the area of accommodation and feeding of pilgrims in the holy land, Mr Musa said three hotels and three feeding contractors will be provide for the welfare and best service of pilgrims.

This is against the backdrop of a single airline (Fly Nass) that airlifted and one feeding contractor provided for Kaduna pilgrims during the 2015 Hajj operations.

Musa said uniform textile material for female intending pilgrims has also been increased from eight to 12 yards per pilgrim, while that of male uniform has also been increased from 10 to 12 yards per pilgrim.

While commending volunteers and officials, he called on the intending pilgrims to ensure regular attendance in order to prepare them on the task of a successful pilgrimage.

•Photo shows previous pilgrims praying in Saudi Arabia.

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