Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the provision of Hadaya — sacrificial rams — for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state performing the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
The Hadaya is a mandatory Islamic ritual for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran, involving the slaughter of a ram or equivalent livestock. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and completes key rites of Hajj. The meat is distributed to needy pilgrims and residents of the holy cities, serving as both worship and charity.
According to officials, each ram will be slaughtered on the days of Tashreeq — 10th to 12th of Dhul Hijjah — in line with Shariah guidelines.
Beyond the Hadaya, Governor Zulum also provided free Ihram garments for male pilgrims — the two-piece white seamless cloth symbolizing equality and purity — and khimar head coverings for female pilgrims. The governor further covered hotel differentials to secure more comfortable accommodation for the Borno contingent in Makkah.
Zulum has consistently funded Hadaya for Borno pilgrims across multiple Hajj seasons to ensure no registered indigent pilgrim is unable to complete their religious obligations.
The Governor charged the pilgrims to intensify prayers for peace and prosperity in Borno State and Nigeria at large.
