Jigawa gives green light to ₦3.5 billion funding for next year's Hajj travelers

The Jigawa State Executive Council has given the green light to a ₦3.5 billion loan, which will be used to pay the 2027 Hajj deposit for 466 pilgrims from the state, according to the State Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa.

n

This decision reflects Governor Umar Namadi’s dedication to the well-being of the state’s citizens, as disclosed by Musa while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Government House, Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.

n

The loan is intended to facilitate the payment of the 2027 Hajj deposit for the 466 intending pilgrims, Musa explained, noting that the approval will help the state meet the requirements of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

n

By approving the loan, the Council aims to ensure the successful participation of its citizens in the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage while complying with the directives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Musa stated.

n

The loan will enable the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to meet the deadline set by the National Hajj Commission, which is part of its efforts to comply with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s requirement for the early finalisation of contractual agreements, according to Musa.

n

Musa noted that the early deposit will secure logistics for pilgrims, including accommodation, transportation, feeding, and other essential services for the intending pilgrims, adding that it will also secure the state’s allocated Hajj slots.

n

The Council views the early deposit as a strategic measure aimed at ensuring seamless planning and efficient coordination of all activities relating to the 2027 Hajj exercise, Musa said.

n

Musa urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate with the State Pilgrims Welfare Board by complying with all registration requirements and timelines to ensure a smooth and successful 2027 Hajj exercise.

n

The commissioner also announced that the Council has approved funding for the renovation of a reformatory school, with the award of a contract for the renovation of the first phase of the Reformatory School, Kafin Hausa, at a total cost of ₦277,214,062.98.

n

This project approval is in line with Governor Namadi’s commitment to strengthening the state’s correctional and rehabilitation system through the provision of modern facilities, Musa stated.

n

The renovation project is expected to upgrade the school’s infrastructure and create a safe, secure, and conducive environment for the delivery of rehabilitation services, according to Musa.

n

The facility will help reform juvenile inmates, equipping them with the skills, discipline, and values necessary for their successful reintegration into society as responsible and productive citizens, Musa noted.

n

The project supports the government’s broader social welfare agenda, with the Council noting that it forms part of the government’s efforts to improve social welfare institutions and promote restorative justice, Musa said.

n

The state government is tackling the root causes of juvenile crime while providing opportunities for personal development and social inclusion, Musa added.