No Funds To Sponsor Christian, Muslim Pilgrimages In 2016, Says Bauchi Govt

Governor of Bauchi State-Mohammed Abdullahi AbubakarThe Bauchi State Government has said it will no longer sponsor Muslims or Christians to Mecca or Israel for pilgrimage.

The government said the decision was taken in light of prevailing economic challenges confronting the state.

The decision to discontinue sponsorship of Christian and Muslim pilgrimages was contained in a statement issued Wednesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Bello Shehu Illelah.

The statement reads: “In view of the tight financial position of the state government arising from the national economic downturn, the state government will not be in a position to sponsor people for this year’s Hajj Pilgrimage. It is hoped that the general public will appreciate the position the government found itself”.