IHR sends important message to Hajj Officials

Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR), a faith-based Civil Society Organisation (CSO), has urged Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards in Nigeria to launch a special enlightenment programme for intending pilgrims, focusing on Saudi Arabian currency denominations and exchange rates.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, IHR’s National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, emphasized the importance of educating Nigerian pilgrims on the nuances of foreign currencies, particularly the exchange rates between US dollars and Saudi Riyals.

Muhammad explained that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the payment of 2025 Hajj BTA (Basic Travel Allowance) in US dollars, making it essential for pilgrims to understand currency denominations. “We call on states’ Muslim pilgrims welfare boards, agencies, and commissions to organise a special enlightenment programme,” he said.

He noted the issue that many Nigerian pilgrims are not familiar with foreign currencies, especially US dollars and Saudi Riyals, and often struggle to identify the value of different denominations. This lack of knowledge can lead to financial confusion during the Hajj when pilgrims engage in transactions and currency exchanges.

“Given past experiences, where some Saudi-based individuals have shortchanged Nigerian pilgrims during transactions, this call is crucial,” Muhammad added. He noted that female pilgrims, in particular, are vulnerable to such exploitation when seeking unregulated dental services upon arrival in Madinah.

Muhammad also appealed to airlines to take responsibility as part of their corporate social duty by using onboard educational systems to help educate pilgrims about currency denominations, further minimizing the risks of financial loss.

“Understanding currency denominations is critical for ensuring pilgrims can properly manage their finances during the Hajj pilgrimage,” Muhammad said.