Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umar Radda, has donated R1,228,200 to pilgrims for Hadiyyah (sacrificial goat), as he urged the muslims to pray for a lasting peace while in the holy land.
The governor disclosed this on Sunday during the official flagging off of the 2025 Hajj operations for the state’s intending pilgrims. He charged them to represent the state and country with discipline, faith, and good conduct throughout the sacred journey to the Holy Land.
“While we have made notable progress in addressing insecurity, challenges like kidnapping still linger.
“Pray for lasting peace, abundant harvests, and continued progress in our dear state,” Radda said.
Governor Radda, who was represented by his Deputy and Amirul Hajj, Faruk Lawal Jobe, reminded the 2,047 pilgrims that Hajj is a spiritual obligation, not a sightseeing trip, and must be undertaken with deep devotion and sincerity.
“This journey is an act of worship. You are going not just as individuals but as ambassadors of Katsina State and Nigeria. May Almighty Allah accept your Hajj and return you home safely,” he said.
The Deputy Governor revealed that the Katsina State Government has donated 600 Saudi Riyals (R600) to each pilgrim for the purchase of Hadiyyah (sacrificial animal).
He also noted that 175 officials, including doctors, Islamic scholars, and staff of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, have been deployed to guide and support the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
“We urge you to spend wisely, stay focused, and avoid unnecessary risks. Only exchange your money at recognised centers in Makkah and Madinah”, he cautioned.
Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Yunusa Abdullahi Dankama, appreciated the state government’s consistent support and assured the pilgrims that all logistics have been handled to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage.
“Despite economic challenges, the government stood firm and ensured that Katsina’s pilgrims will perform Hajj this year with dignity and peace of mind”, he said.
Chairman of the State Pilgrims Board, Alhaji Kabir Bature Sarkin Alhazai, also called on the pilgrims to obey their team leaders, stay calm, and concentrate on their spiritual duties.
“Patience, humility, and obedience are the key to an accepted Hajj. Avoid quarrels and unnecessary distractions,” he advised.
Prominent Islamic scholars, including Dr. Aminu Yammawa and Mallam Bin Usman Kano, Commissioner of the National Hajj Commission in charge of the North-West Zone also delivered sermons, urging the pilgrims to uphold the teachings of Islam, follow Shariah, and maintain good manners throughout the rites.
Source: the Punch
