CBN Approves Cash-Based Travel Allowance For 2025 Hajj Pilgrims
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that in a significant development aimed at improving the travel experience for Nigerian pilgrims, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved the use of cash for the disbursement of the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) for the 2025 Hajj. This decision marks a reversal of the CBN’s earlier plan to enforce a debit card-only policy.
The change comes after a decisive intervention by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who made a persuasive appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on behalf of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and concerned pilgrims.
The Vice President’s appeal emphasized the difficulties a cashless policy would pose, particularly for the predominantly rural and financially less-literate Nigerian pilgrims.
Speaking with journalists after a meeting with the Vice President, NAHCON’s Commissioner for Policy, Personnel Management & Finance, Aliu Abdulrazaq, confirmed the CBN’s decision to allow cash transactions for this year’s Hajj.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Abdulrazaq said:
“The meeting was prompted by the federal government’s earlier policy mandating the use of debit cards for the 2025 Hajj BTA. Several discussions had taken place before now, and the Vice President’s intervention, including a direct appeal to the CBN Deputy Governor, led to this positive outcome.”
“Thanks to the CBN’s magnanimity and the Vice President’s appeal, the policy has been revised. Pilgrims will now be allowed to receive their BTA in cash. This is a landmark achievement for NAHCON.”
He further explained the practical challenges associated with a cashless policy:
“In the areas of Saudi Arabia where most Hajj rituals are performed, there is typically only one ATM available—and it’s always overcrowded. This creates major inconveniences for pilgrims trying to make purchases.”
“Moreover, about 95% of Nigerian pilgrims are peasant farmers who often face challenges using electronic payment systems. Many even struggle to recognize foreign currencies. For this demographic, cash is a more practical and accessible option.”
Abdulrazaq concluded by expressing optimism about the upcoming Hajj operations:
“With this issue resolved, we’re confident that the 2025 Hajj will proceed smoothly. Preparations have been in full swing, and now our main concern—the BTA—has been effectively addressed.”
