The Jigawa State Executive Council has approved a ₦3.5 billion loan to facilitate the payment of the 2027 Hajj deposit for intending pilgrims from the state.
The State Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa, announced the approval while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Government House in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital.
According to Musa, the approval reflects Governor Umar Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of the people of the state.
“In line with Governor Umar Namadi’s administration’s proactive commitment to meeting the state government’s obligations, the council has approved the release of the sum of ₦3.5 billion as a loan to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the loan would enable the board to pay the 2027 Hajj deposit for 466 intending pilgrims from Jigawa State.
He said the approval was aimed at ensuring the state complies with the directives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and guarantees the successful participation of its pilgrims in the 2027 pilgrimage.
Musa added that the loan would enable the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to meet the deadline set by the commission in line with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s requirement for the early conclusion of contractual arrangements.
According to him, the early deposit will secure the state’s allocated Hajj slots and facilitate timely arrangements for accommodation, transportation, feeding and other essential services for the intending pilgrims.
He described the decision as a strategic step to ensure seamless planning and efficient coordination of the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The commissioner urged intending pilgrims to cooperate with the State Pilgrims Welfare Board by complying with all registration requirements and timelines to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.
The Executive Council also approved the award of a contract for the first phase of the renovation of the Reformatory School in Kafin Hausa at a cost of ₦277.2 million.
Musa said the project aligns with Governor Namadi’s commitment to strengthening the state’s correctional and rehabilitation system
