The Senator representing Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has sponsored 33 Kwarans for the 2023 Hajj, spending over 150 million naira in travel costs and expenses.
A highly placed source informed this medium on condition of anonymity that the gesture is an annual spiritual routine of the Senator which he started as far back as 2011.
Although the specific cost was not expressly stated, but this medium did a calculation of the aggregate travel cost which includes the cost of visa to Saudi Arabia, administrative charges by the National Hajj Commission, cost of accommodation and air ticket fees for international travels.
The lawmaker, through his foundation, Saliu Mustapha Foundation, paid for the pilgrims’ travels, accommodation and feeding with an additional personal travel allowance of one million Naira each paid in Dollars to the individual beneficiary.
Bidding them farewell on Thursday, Mustapha told the 33 intending pilgrims to adhere to guidelines and regulations put in place by the Saudi Arabian authorities.
He said: “The Hajj is a significant spiritual journey for our Muslim brothers and sisters, and I pray that Allah accept their pilgrimage. I hope that Hajj goers have a safe and fulfilling experience.
“I urge you all to adhere to all the laws put in place by the Saudi authorities, and don’t forget to prioritize your health and safety during the pilgrimage.”
The lawmaker further expressed his commitment to promoting the welfare of the less privileged in the country.
Speaking with our correspondent, Imam Khadijat, one of the beneficiaries applauded the Senator for the gesture, promising to pray fervently for him, the state and the country at large.
He said: “I can’t thank Senator Saliu Mustapha enough for sponsoring us to Makkah. Visiting the Holy Land has always been my dream and for making it come true, I will pray for Senator Saliu and the peaceful co-existence of Kwara and Nigeria.”
Other beneficiaries also expressed their immense gratitude for the foundation’s show of love, generosity and commitment to supporting the less privileged.
