Katsina approves N3.8bn loan for 3,890 Hajj slots

The Katsina State Government has approved a N3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this on Sunday in Katsina during the farewell ceremony for pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia. He said the intervention became necessary after […]

The Katsina State Government has approved a N3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this on Sunday in Katsina during the farewell ceremony for pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia.

He said the intervention became necessary after the state initially faced challenges in meeting its allocated slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

“In response, we approved a N3.8 billion loan, which enabled Katsina State to secure and fill 3,890 slots for this year’s Hajj,” he said.

Radda urged pilgrims to pray for peace, unity and improved security in Katsina State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.

He also announced that the government would sponsor Hadaya for all pilgrims to improve their welfare during the exercise.

He said each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia, while 200 officials have been deployed to provide spiritual guidance, medical support and logistics.

The governor said his administration had strengthened the capacity of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and address past challenges.

He urged pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of the state and country, noting that many families made sacrifices to enable them to perform the Hajj.

He also cautioned against spreading misinformation during the pilgrimage.