Sokoto Pilgrims Receive 100 Riyals Refund Following Hadaya Price Reduction
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has commenced the refund of 100 Saudi Riyals to pilgrims who paid for Hadaya through the state’s Hadaya Committee during the 2026 Hajj exercise.
This was revealed in statement that was signed by the Head of Information and Communications of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruku Umar.
He disclosed that the refund became necessary following a successful negotiation that reduced the cost of the sacrificial ram used for the Hadaya exercise.
Secretary of the Hadaya Committee, Alhaji Sirajo Bello Sifawa, said the committee initially collected 650 Saudi Riyals from each pilgrim to facilitate the procurement of rams for the ritual sacrifice.
However, after negotiations with suppliers, the cost was reduced to 550 Saudi Riyals per ram, leaving an excess of 100 Saudi Riyals for each pilgrim.
He explained that the approved refund is currently being disbursed to all affected pilgrims, in line with the committee’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing Hajj-related funds.
Alhaji Sifawa urged eligible pilgrims to contact their respective Assistant Hajj Registration Officers to collect their refunds promptly.
He noted that the refund process reflects the agency’s dedication to ensuring that pilgrims benefit from any cost savings achieved during Hajj operations.
The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency expressed appreciation to pilgrims for their cooperation and understanding throughout the exercise, assuring them of its continued commitment to prudent financial management and efficient service delivery.
The development has been welcomed by many pilgrims, as it demonstrates efforts by the agency to maintain transparency in the conduct of Hajj affairs and safeguard the interests of intending and returning pilgrims.
