The Governor acknowledged the committee’s efforts in managing challenges during the pilgrimage. Photo: Aminu Dalhatu/Radio Nigeria
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, says his administration is considering spending an additional N1.3 billion to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah for the state’s pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.
The Governor, however, says the proposed expenditure must be carefully weighed against other pressing development needs, including the construction of schools and hospitals that could benefit millions of residents for decades.
Governor Dauda Lawal stated this at the Government House in Gusau while receiving the report of the 2026 Hajj exercise from the Amirul Hajj and Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad.
He commended the Amirul Hajj committee for its commitment and sacrifices in ensuring a successful pilgrimage, despite the challenges encountered by some pilgrims.
The Governor noted that the report contained eight recommendations requiring attention, assuring the committee that his administration would address issues within its jurisdiction.
Governor Lawal, however, explained that some challenges were beyond the control of the state government because Hajj operations were subject to the rules and regulations of Saudi Arabia, which could not be circumvented.
On accommodation, the Governor disclosed that he had received a memorandum from the Chairman of the State Hajj Commission proposing that Zamfara pilgrims need to be accommodated closer to the Haram to reduce the hardship associated with travelling long distances to the Holy Mosque.
He said the proposal would require additional funding of about ₦1.3 billion, describing the cost as a major consideration in the state’s preparations for the next pilgrimage.
Governor Lawal added that he would meet with the Secretary to the State Government and the Commissioner for Local Government to discuss possible ways of financing the arrangement.
The Governor stressed that, although the comfort and welfare of pilgrims remained important, his administration also had a responsibility to consider investments that would provide lasting benefits to the people.
He explained that the money required to secure accommodation closer to the Haram for the approximately 30 to 40 days pilgrimage could alternatively be invested in schools or hospitals that would serve the state for many years.
Governor Lawal said the government must carefully consider whether to commit such a substantial amount to temporary accommodation or invest in infrastructure that would benefit future generations.
On transportation, the Governor explained that Saudi Arabian authorities imposed strict regulations on the number of vehicles permitted during the Hajj to ensure orderly movement and prevent congestion.
Earlier, the Amirul Hajj and Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad, said the report highlighted the successes recorded during the 2026 pilgrimage as well as areas requiring urgent improvement.
Alhaji Ahmad explained that the recommendations were aimed at improving the welfare and overall experience of Zamfara pilgrims during subsequent Hajj exercises.
According to him, a major recommendation was the need to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah to reduce transportation difficulties and ease pilgrims’ movement from the Holy Mosque.
The report is expected to guide the Zamfara State Government’s preparations for the 2027 Hajj, particularly in addressing accommodation, transportation, medical services and other challenges identified during the 2026 exercise.
SOURCE: FRCN Damaturu
