Governor Approves ₦3.8bn Loan To Secure 3,890 Hajj Slots For Pilgrims

Governor Approves ₦3.8bn Loan To Secure 3,890 Hajj Slots For Pilgrims

The Katsina State Government has approved a ₦3.8 billion loan to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 pilgrimage.

Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this during a farewell ceremony for pilgrims in Katsina on Sunday, explaining that the intervention became necessary after the state faced challenges in meeting its allocated slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

“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,” he said.

Radda urged the pilgrims to use the opportunity to pray for peace, unity, and improved security in Katsina State and Nigeria. He also announced additional welfare support, including sponsorship of Hadaya and a $500 allowance for each pilgrim to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia.

He further revealed that 200 officials have been deployed to provide spiritual guidance, medical support, and logistical assistance throughout the pilgrimage, noting that all personnel were carefully selected and equipped for the task.

According to him, the state government has also strengthened the operations of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and address past challenges. “We have taken deliberate steps to improve the board’s structure and efficiency,” he said, adding that strict supervision and accountability measures have been put in place.

Radda advised pilgrims to maintain discipline and good conduct, stressing that many families made sacrifices to enable their participation.