The Jigawa Executive Council has approved N3.3 billion as a loan to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to enable it to obtain the allocated seats from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.

Sagir Musa, the state commissioner for information, youth, sport and culture, disclosed this on Tuesday at a media briefing after the state executive council meeting.

Mr Musa said that the loan was issued in line with the Namadi administration’s proactive stance and unwavering support for the spiritual well-being of residents.

He explained that the loan would cover 400 seats for intending pilgrims as assigned to the state by NAHCON.

According to him, the council’s decision is to secure and preserve the state’s Hajj seat allocation in a timely manner so as to ensure smooth and well-organised operations ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage.

“It is worth noting that the state Pilgrims Welfare Board is expected to fully refund the sum before the commencement of the airlift operations,” he said.

He also said that the state executive council approved the sum of ₦428.4 million for the establishment of 28 palliative shops across the 27 local government areas.

”These new outlets will be strategically located to enhance equitable access to the palliative support programme,” he said. 

(NAN)