By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

In a major policy shift aimed at easing travel for Nigerian pilgrims, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the use of cash-based Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) for those embarking on the 2025 Hajj.

The decision was reached after a successful intervention by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who made a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu on behalf of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Previously, the CBN had mandated the use of debit cards for all financial transactions related to the pilgrimage. The controversial policy raised concerns among stakeholders, with fears that it could disrupt planning and inconvenience thousands of intending pilgrims?many of whom are not familiar with electronic banking systems.

Speaking after a meeting with the Vice President, NAHCON?s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management & Finance, Alhaji Aliu Abdulrazaq, confirmed the policy reversal.

?The CBN, out of magnanimity and in response to the Vice President?s appeal, has dropped the card-based BTA policy. Pilgrims will now be allowed to carry cash instead. This is a landmark achievement,? he said.

He highlighted the logistical challenges that informed the decision, pointing out the limited ATM availability in pilgrimage zones in Saudi Arabia and the predominantly rural background of most Nigerian pilgrims.

?About 95 per cent of our pilgrims are peasant farmers. They struggle with electronic payments and even with recognizing foreign currency. Allowing them to carry cash makes the process far more convenient and culturally appropriate,? Abdulrazaq explained.

NAHCON Secretary, Dr Mustapha Muhammad Ali, clarified that the new arrangement should not be seen as a subsidy or concession.

?This is not a subsidy by the federal government. The CBN will provide the cash at market rate. The Vice President merely stepped in to address a critical gap in the system and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for Nigerians,? he said.

Also commenting, CBN?s Director of Human Resources and Board Representative to NAHCON, Abba Muhammad Aliyu, said the policy change was in the interest of the pilgrims? welfare.

?Many pilgrims lack the financial literacy required to use ATMs or bank cards. This change was necessary to ease their experience,? he said, reiterating that the CBN remains committed to ensuring a seamless Hajj operation.

The development has been widely welcomed by religious groups and travel operators involved in the Hajj process.

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