The Jigawa State Executive Council has approved a ₦3.5 billion loan to enable the payment of 2027 Hajj deposits for 466 intending pilgrims, in a move aimed at securing the state’s participation in the pilgrimage and meeting regulatory deadlines.
The approval was announced on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa, while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Dutse.
According to Musa, the loan will be released to the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board to facilitate early payment of deposits required by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). He said the decision reflects Governor Umar Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of residents and proactive planning for the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The commissioner explained that early payment is necessary to comply with Saudi Arabia’s requirement for the timely conclusion of contractual arrangements. He noted that it would also help secure Jigawa’s Hajj allocation and ensure early planning for accommodation, transportation, feeding and other logistics for intending pilgrims.
Musa urged all prospective pilgrims to cooperate with the Pilgrims Welfare Board by completing registration requirements and meeting stipulated deadlines to guarantee a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
Beyond the Hajj approval, the Executive Council also approved the award of a ₦277.2 million contract for the first phase of the renovation of the Reformatory School in Kafin Hausa.
He said the project aligns with Governor Namadi’s efforts to strengthen the state’s correctional and rehabilitation system by providing safer and more modern facilities for juvenile offenders.
According to the commissioner, the upgraded facility is expected to improve rehabilitation services by equipping young inmates with practical skills, discipline and values needed for successful reintegration into society. He added that the project also supports the state’s broader social welfare agenda by addressing the root causes of juvenile crime and promoting restorative justice.
