- Katsina Approves ₦3.8bn Loan To Secure 3,890 Hajj Slots
- Each pilgrim will receive $500 allowance during Saudi Arabia pilgrimage.
- Governor Radda urged pilgrims to pray for peace and security.
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.
Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this on Sunday during the official farewell ceremony organised for pilgrims departing Katsina State for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the governor said the intervention became necessary after the state encountered challenges in meeting its allocated Hajj slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
According to Radda, the approved loan enabled the state to secure and fully utilise its allocated slots for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
“I was informed that the state initially had difficulty meeting its allocated Hajj slots,” the governor said.
“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 intending pilgrims to use the spiritual exercise to pray for lasting peace, unity and improved security across Katsina State and Nigeria.
The governor also announced that the state government would sponsor Hadaya for all pilgrims as part of measures aimed at improving their welfare during the pilgrimage.
He further disclosed that each pilgrim would receive a $500 allowance to assist with basic expenses while in Saudi Arabia.
“Each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia,” he stated.
Radda added that about 200 officials had been deployed to provide spiritual guidance, medical support and logistical assistance throughout the Hajj exercise.
“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,” he added.
The governor said his administration had strengthened the operational capacity of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and tackle previous challenges associated with Hajj operations.
“We have taken deliberate steps to improve the board’s structure and efficiency,” Radda said.
“I have directed the Amirul Hajj and all relevant authorities to ensure strict supervision, accountability, and discipline among officials.”
He assured pilgrims that the government would continue monitoring the conduct of officials and ensure adequate support throughout the pilgrimage.
Radda also urged pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly as ambassadors of Katsina State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.
“Many people sold personal belongings to perform Hajj. You are expected to show the highest level of discipline, patience, and mutual respect,” the governor stated.
He also cautioned pilgrims against spreading misinformation during the exercise and urged them to communicate responsibly.
The governor further disclosed that the state had improved accommodation and feeding arrangements for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to ensure a more organised and comfortable experience.
“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,” he added.
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