Kebbi Government Secures N10bn to Add 1,300 Hajj Seats for 2026 Pilgrims
The Kebbi State Government has approved N10 billion to secure 1,300 additional seats for residents taking part in the 2026 Hajj exercise. Alhaji Faruku Aliyu-Yaro, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, disclosed the development on Saturday while briefing journalists in Birnin Kebbi. He said the loan was approved to meet the December 5 deadline set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). Aliyu-Yaro praised Governor Nasir Idris for his “decisive, compassionate, and people-centred intervention,” noting that the state risked losing hundreds of Hajj slots if the deadline was missed. “Many intending pilgrims were already in tears, fearing they would miss the exercise. But the governor stepped in at the critical moment. He deserves special prayers from the people of Kebbi State,” he said. The approval of the N10 billion loan not only secured Kebbi State’s full allocation but also created room for additional participants. Consequently, the deadline for intending pilgrims to pay the 2026 Hajj fare of N7,696,769.79 has been extended to December 16. “This ensures that all eligible residents across the 21 local government areas—including Argungu, Yauri, Zuru, and Bagudo—have a fair opportunity to participate. No one willing to perform Hajj will be left behind,” Aliyu-Yaro said. He also noted that preparations for the 2026 Hajj began several months ago, with the agency already processing documentation and other necessary arrangements. “Kebbi started preparations seven to eight months ago, which has helped us maintain a leadership role nationally in Hajj planning and coordination,” he added.
