The Katsina State Government has approved a ₦3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Papers News reports that the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, disclosed this on Sunday in Katsina during the official farewell ceremony organised for the state’s intending pilgrims departing for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Radda said the intervention became necessary after the state initially faced financial difficulty in meeting its allocated Hajj slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
The governor explained that the loan enabled the state to secure and fill its allocated slots for the exercise.
He said, “I was informed that the state initially had difficulty meeting its allocated Hajj slots.
“In response, we approved a ₦3.8 billion loan, which enabled Katsina state to secure and fill 3,890 slots for this year’s Hajj.”
Radda urged the pilgrims to use their stay in the Holy Land to pray for lasting peace, unity and improved security in Katsina State and Nigeria.
The governor also announced that the state government would sponsor Hadaya for all intending pilgrims as part of efforts to improve their welfare during the pilgrimage.
According to him, each pilgrim will also receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs while in Saudi Arabia.
He said, “Each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia.
“200 officials have been deployed to provide spiritual guidance, medical support, and logistical assistance throughout the Hajj exercise.
“All officials have been carefully selected and equipped to support pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.”
Radda said his administration had strengthened the capacity of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and address previous challenges associated with Hajj operations.
He said, “We have taken deliberate steps to improve the board’s structure and efficiency.
“I have directed the Amirul Hajj and all relevant authorities to ensure strict supervision, accountability, and discipline among officials.”
The governor said the government would continue to monitor the conduct of officials and ensure that pilgrims received the support required throughout the exercise.
Radda urged the intending pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Katsina State and Nigeria while in Saudi Arabia.
He reminded them that many families made sacrifices to enable their loved ones to perform the spiritual exercise.
He said, “Many people sold personal belongings to perform Hajj. You are expected to show the highest level of discipline, patience, and mutual respect.”
The governor also cautioned pilgrims against spreading misinformation during the pilgrimage, urging them to communicate responsibly and avoid actions capable of creating confusion.
Radda said his administration had improved accommodation and feeding arrangements for pilgrims in the Holy Land.
He noted that the state government had taken steps to ensure a more organised and comfortable experience for pilgrims during the exercise.
He said, “Since assuming office, we have ensured better accommodation and quality feeding for our pilgrims.
“I personally inspected these facilities during previous Hajj operations and I was satisfied with the progress made.”
The governor assured the pilgrims that the state government would continue to prioritise their welfare and safety throughout the Hajj exercise.
