By Ahmad Alabira, Dutse
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has acquired a loan of N3.36 billion from the state government to facilitate the 2025 Hajj operations.
This was according to the Director General of the board, Ahmed Umar Labbo while addressing reporters in his office over the 2025 Hajj preparation.
Labbo said the loan will cover necessary arrangements, including accommodation and feeding among others.
He said the Board has also made a payment of N4.5 billion to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
Labbo disclosed that the Board has secured accommodation close to the Haram Mosque in Makkah and engaged credible companies to provide quality food for the pilgrims.
He noted that during the 2024 Hajj operation, each pilgrim from Jigawa State received a refund of N1.5 million, resulting in a total payment of approximately above N5 million per pilgrim.
Labbo urged the intending pilgrims who have not completed their payment to do so within the next seven days, saying one-week grace period has been granted.
He added that the move is aimed at ensuring that all pilgrims are adequately prepared for the Hajj operations.
He said the State Government’s support for the Pilgrims Welfare Board demonstrates its commitment to facilitating a successful Hajj experience for its citizens.
He therefore said with the necessary arrangements in place, pilgrims from Jigawa State can look forward to a comfortable and spiritual experience in Makkah.
