Jigawa State Government has approved the release of ₦3.5 billion as a loan to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to facilitate payment of the 2027 Hajj seat deposit for 466 intending pilgrims from the state.
The State Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Alhaji Sagir Musa Ahmed, disclosed this to journalists shortly after the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House, Dutse.
He explained that, the approval is aimed at ensuring the successful participation of its citizens in the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage while complying with the directives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria
(NAHCON).
He said, the loan is intended to enable the state pilgrims welfare board meet the deadline set by NAHCON as part of its efforts to comply with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s requirement for the early
finalization of contractual agreements and advance payments for the 2027
Hajj operations.
Alhaji Sagir Musa Ahmed said, the early payment will secure the state’s allocated hajj seats and facilitate timely arrangements for accommodation, transportation, feeding, and other essential services for the intending pilgrims.
According to him, the council noted that the early deposit is a strategic measure aimed at ensuring seamless planning and efficient coordination of all activities relating to the 2027 Hajj exercise, while protecting the interests of the state intending pilgrims.
The Commissioner added that, the state government urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate with the pilgrims board in complying with all registration requirements and timelines to ensure a smooth and successful 2027 Hajj exercise.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
