Katsina Government Flags Off 2025 Hajj Operations with 2,047 Pilgrims Sponsored for Sacrificial Offerings
The Katsina State Government has officially launched the 2025 Hajj operations with a call for pilgrims to represent the state and Nigeria with dignity and integrity.
The flag-off ceremony took place at the state’s pilgrims’ camp in Katsina and was attended by prominent Islamic scholars, political leaders, and key stakeholders in Hajj affairs.
Speaking at the event, Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, represented by his Deputy, Hon. Faruq Lawal Jobe, urged the intending pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of both Katsina State and Nigeria.
“This journey is not just personal; you are representing Katsina State and the entire country. Conduct yourselves with discipline and uphold good character throughout this spiritual voyage,” he said. “May Allah accept your pilgrimage and return you safely.”
Jobe announced that the state government had deployed 175 officials to Saudi Arabia, including medical personnel, clerics, and officials of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to guide and support the pilgrims.
He further disclosed that the administration of Governor Radda had fully covered the cost of sacrificial animals (Hadaya) for all 2,047 pilgrims from the state, amounting to approximately 600 Saudi Riyals per person.
In his concluding remarks, the Deputy Governor advised the pilgrims to remain vigilant and safeguard their belongings. He also urged them to avoid unauthorized currency exchanges and instead use only approved exchange centers in Makkah and Madinah.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Yunusa Abdullahi Dankama, assured the pilgrims that all arrangements had been finalized to ensure a smooth and secure Hajj exercise.
“Despite the prevailing economic challenges, the government has made significant efforts to guarantee a dignified and stress-free pilgrimage for all Katsina pilgrims,” he stated.
In a similar vein, Alhaji Kabir Bature, Sarkin Alhazai and head of the state pilgrims delegation, advised the pilgrims to remain obedient to their leaders, coexist peacefully, and stay focused on the spiritual essence of the journey.
“Patience, humility, and obedience are key to a successful Hajj. Avoid conflict and unnecessary distractions,” he advised.
The flag-off ceremony also witnessed the unveiling of a new book on Hajj and Umrah, published by the Gwagware Foundation, dedicated to the memory of the late Hajiya Safara’u, mother of Governor Dikko Radda.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr. Aminu Abdullahi Yammawa, Malam Bin Usman Kano, the Zonal Commissioner of the National Hajj Commission for the Northwest, Hon. Sada Soli Jibia (Member, House of Representatives for Kaita/Jibia), Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, Chief Judge Justice Musa Danladi Abubakar, Grand Khadi Dr. Kabir Mustapha, state lawmakers, members of the executive council, and other top government officials.
