The Jigawa State Executive Council has approved a ₦3.5 billion loan to enable 466 intending pilgrims from the state pay their 2027 Hajj deposit. The state government said the approval would help the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board meet the deadline set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Loan targets 466 intending pilgrims
Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa, announced the approval while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Government House in Dutse. According to Musa, the decision reflects Governor Umar Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of residents.
“The Council has approved the release of the sum of Three Billion, Five Hundred Million Naira as a loan to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board.”
He explained that the loan would cover the 2027 Hajj deposit for 466 intending pilgrims from the state.
State moves to meet NAHCON deadline
Musa said the approval would allow the Pilgrims Welfare Board to comply with NAHCON’s directive for early payment. He added that the early deposit would also satisfy Saudi Arabia’s requirement for the timely completion of contractual arrangements for the pilgrimage.
According to the commissioner, the early payment will secure the state’s Hajj allocation and support arrangements for accommodation, transportation, feeding and other logistics. He described the move as a strategic step that would ensure smooth planning and coordination of the 2027 Hajj exercise.
Pilgrims urged to complete registration
The commissioner urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate with the State Pilgrims Welfare Board by completing their registration and meeting all required timelines. He said the cooperation would help ensure a successful 2027 Hajj exercise.
Council approves school renovation
Meanwhile, the Executive Council also approved the renovation of the first phase of the Reformatory School in Kafin Hausa. Musa said the project, valued at ₦277.2 million, aligns with Governor Namadi’s commitment to improving correctional and rehabilitation facilities across the state.
According to him, the renovation will provide a safer environment for rehabilitation while equipping juvenile inmates with skills and values needed for their successful reintegration into society. He added that the project forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen social welfare institutions and promote restorative justice.
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