* Warns Against Exploitation of Intending Pilgrims
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has charged the newly appointed Chairman of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Sheikh Malam Nasir Abdulrahman, to discharge his responsibilities with integrity, transparency and accountability to safeguard the interests of intending pilgrims.
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A statement signed by Ibrahim kaula Mohammed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said the Governor gave the charge yesterday while receiving a high-powered delegation from Funtua Local Government Area, led by the new Board Chairman, during a thank-you visit at the Red Chamber.
Governor Radda described the administration of Hajj affairs as a sensitive responsibility that requires dedication, compassion and prudent management of resources, considering the sacrifices many Muslims make to fulfil the religious obligation.
“Some people are willing to sell their belongings and make enormous sacrifices just to have the opportunity to perform Hajj. Those entrusted with managing their affairs must therefore appreciate the importance of this responsibility and ensure that the interests of intending pilgrims are protected,” he said.
The Governor cautioned against the exploitation of pilgrims and the diversion or mismanagement of their funds, stressing that the state government expected the board to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability.
He noted that the appointment of the new chairman followed careful consideration of the experience, commitment and performance of individuals who had served on relevant committees.
“When the opportunity came, we considered those who had served on the relevant committees and assessed their contributions. We know those who work diligently and those who do not give their responsibilities the attention they deserve. These experiences informed our decisions,” he explained.
Governor Radda expressed confidence in Sheikh Nasir Abdulrahman’s capacity to deliver on his mandate, noting that effective Hajj administration requires sound knowledge, practical experience and a clear understanding of the religious and logistical demands of the exercise.
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He added that the appointment was an opportunity to serve humanity and contribute to the fulfilment of one of the five pillars of Islam.
“Every opportunity to serve is a trust from Almighty Allah. Whatever we achieve is by His grace, and we must remain conscious of our responsibility to the people. I pray that Allah grants him the wisdom, strength and guidance to succeed in this assignment,” the Governor said.
Governor Radda also commended the people of Funtua for their support and solidarity, expressing appreciation for their decision to visit and demonstrating confidence in the appointment.
He further congratulated the Vice-Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, Professor Nasiru Musa, on his reappointment, wishing him continued success in advancing academic excellence and institutional development.
Earlier, Professor Nasiru Musa, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, thanked Governor Radda for appointing Sheikh Nasir Abdulrahman as Chairman of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, describing the appointment as a source of pride to the people of Funtua.
“We sincerely appreciate His Excellency for entrusting this important responsibility to our son. Given his experience and exposure, we are confident that he will justify the confidence reposed in him and contribute meaningfully to the effective administration of pilgrims’ affairs in Katsina State,” he said.
Professor Musa also commended the Governor for his development initiatives across the state, noting that the delegation had come to express its appreciation and reaffirm the community’s support for his administration.
Also speaking, Malam Abdulrahman Gambo introduced members of the delegation, explaining that it comprised representatives of Funtua’s traditional institutions, business community, youth groups, religious leadership and former senior government officials.
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He said the delegation represented a broad cross-section of the community and had come to appreciate the Governor for recognising one of Funtua’s sons with the important appointment.
Those in attendance were the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abdullahi Garba Faskari; the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Hon. Ishaq Shehu Dabai; traditional title holders, business leaders, youth representatives, religious leaders, former senior government officials, and other prominent indigenes of Funtua Local Government Area.