Dikko Umaru Radda has approved the payment of Hadaya (sacrificial rites) for all intending pilgrims from Katsina State for the 2026 Hajj exercise, as the state formally commenced this year’s pilgrimage operations with the official farewell ceremony for pilgrims departing to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The governor made the announcement on Sunday during the send-off ceremony held in Katsina, where he urged the 3,890 intending pilgrims to pray for lasting peace, unity and security in Katsina State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Governor Radda disclosed that the state government secured a ₦3.8 billion loan facility to enable Katsina State fill all its allocated Hajj slots after initial financial difficulties threatened the exercise.
According to him, each pilgrim will also receive a Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) of 500 US dollars to support their stay in Saudi Arabia.
He further revealed that 240 officials had been deployed to provide spiritual guidance, medical support and logistical coordination during the pilgrimage.
The governor said his administration had strengthened the operational capacity of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and address previous challenges associated with Hajj operations.
He directed the Amirul Hajj, Ahmad Usman El-Marzuq, and other delegates to ensure strict supervision, accountability and discipline throughout the exercise.
Governor Radda also cautioned pilgrims against spreading misinformation capable of misrepresenting government efforts, urging them to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of the state and Nigeria.
He noted that improvements had been recorded in accommodation and feeding arrangements for Katsina pilgrims in Saudi Arabia since the inception of his administration.
The Amirul Hajj, Barrister El-Marzuq, said extensive consultations had been carried out with stakeholders and Hajj officials to ensure a smooth operation.
He explained that responsibilities had been clearly assigned to officials to enhance discipline, accountability and effective welfare management.
Goodwill messages were also delivered on behalf of the Katsina and Daura Emirates by the Sarkin Fadar Katsina, Abdulkadir Damale, who urged pilgrims to pray for peace and stability in the country.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Faruk Lawal Jobe; Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Nasir Yahaya Daura; Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Garba Faskari; Chief Judge, Musa Danladi Abubakar; Head of Service, Falalu Bawale; and other senior government officials, traditional rulers and business leaders.
Source: fashastream
