By Lamara Garba
The Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, has approved a special cash support package of 350 Saudi Riyals for each of the over 4,000 pilgrims from the state currently performing the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The State Amirul Hajj, Alhaji Ahmad Ja’afaru Jega, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Makkah, stating that the gesture formed part of Governor Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu’s commitment to ensuring the comfort and welfare of Kebbi pilgrims throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
According to him, the governor also fully settled the Hadaya sacrifice fees for all the state pilgrims to enable them perform the important Hajj rite without financial burden.
Alhaji Ahmad Ja’afaru Jega explained that the additional SR350 cash support was provided to assist the pilgrims in meeting personal expenses and to ease their stay in Makkah during the pilgrimage period.
He added that the Kebbi State Government equally distributed free Ihram materials to male pilgrims and Hijabs to female pilgrims as part of efforts to ensure adequate preparation and comfort for the Hajj rites.
The Amirul Hajj said the welfare initiatives introduced by the governor had greatly reduced the difficulties often encountered by pilgrims during Hajj operations.
According to him, the administration of Governor Nasir Idris had demonstrated exceptional concern for the wellbeing of Kebbi pilgrims right from the commencement of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Alhaji Ja’afaru Jega further revealed that the state government secured decent accommodation for the pilgrims at locations very close to the Grand Mosque in Makkah, enabling them to conveniently participate in the five daily congregational prayers at the Holy Ka’abah Mosque.
“Because of the proximity of our hotels to the Grand Mosque, our pilgrims have been attending prayers at the Ka’abah regularly without stress. This is a great spiritual privilege for them,” he stated.
He commended Governor Nasir Idris for what he described as a remarkable demonstration of leadership, compassion and dedication to the welfare of Kebbi pilgrims in the Holy Land.
The Amirul Hajj also praised the conduct of the state contingents, noting that the pilgrims had remained disciplined, peaceful and orderly since their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
“Despite being one of the states with the largest contingents from Nigeria, Kebbi pilgrims have continued to conduct themselves responsibly in all places of worship and public gatherings. This is commendable and reflects positively on Kebbi State and Nigeria,” he said.
He added that officials of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board and other support teams had continued to work tirelessly to ensure the comfort, safety and successful completion of Hajj rites by the pilgrims.
Alhaji Ja’afaru Jega urged the pilgrims to continue praying for peace, unity and development in Kebbi State and Nigeria, while also encouraging them to obey Saudi regulations and maintain the good image of the country throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Many of the pilgrims who spoke on the development expressed appreciation to the Kebbi State Government for the cash support and other welfare packages provided to them, describing the 2026 Hajj exercise as one of the most organised and pilgrim-friendly operations in recent times.
The pilgrims also offered prayers for Governor Nasir Idris, asking Allah to reward him abundantly for prioritising their welfare and demonstrating genuine concern for theirspiritual and social wellbeing.