Senate asks Nigerian govt to make dollar available to pilgrims at N200

The Nigerian Senate has asked the Federal Government to "as matter of urgency" make dollar accessible to Nigerians on pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia or Israel at N200, lower than what was affirmed in the Medium Term Expenditure Framework and the Appropriations Act. 

The Senate's call, on Thursday, took after the appropriation of the cover "Extortion of Pilgrims By National Hajj Commission" by its committee on foreign affairs introduced by Monsurat Sunmonu, APC-Oyo. 

"The Government ought to as matter of desperation expand concession on the Naira – Dollar trade to NAHCON and NCPC, once in consistently, for the journeys to the two Holy Lands," read the report. 

"Along these lines, the committee firmly prescribes the concession of N200 to $1 for
2017 Hajj to cut down cost to the tolerable level," it included. 

Adamu Aliero, APC-Kebbi, said the Central Bank of Nigeria had been putting forth dollar at N200 to some anonymous organizations, while looking for the help of the Senate to receive the proposal on the conversion standard. 

"You said CBN has been giving a few organizations dollar at N200?" asked Senate President Bukola Saraki, calling Mr. Aliero to repeat his claim. 

"In the event that a few organizations are getting that concession, travelers likewise merit it," Mr. Saraki stated, after a confirmation by Mr. Aliero. 

The dollar presently trades for 365 naira operating at a profit showcase, and around 315 naira in the interbank. 

Faultfinders of bringing down exchange rate for pioneers contend the approach fills no monetary need, and hold that such concession ought to be allowed to organizations that assistance fortify development. 

The Senate additionally settled that the government ought to reestablish the "foundation of amir hajj" to enhance the connection amongst Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in regard of Hajj. 

It likewise entrusted the administration to "connect with at most elevated amount discourses with Saudi Arabia to survey the 50 – 50 carriage of travelers amongst Nigerian and Saudi Arabian aircrafts. 

• "This is with a view to giving chances to more indigenous Nigerian carriers to partake in Hajj operations," as indicated by a suggestion, which was later received by the Senate.