The Jigawa State Executive Council has approved a ₦3.5 billion loan to facilitate the payment of the 2027 Hajj deposit for 466 intending pilgrims from the state, as part of efforts to meet the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s deadline and ensure seamless preparations for the pilgrimage.
The State Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa, disclosed the approval while briefing journalists after the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Government House in Dutse.
Mr Musa said the approval reflected Governor Umar Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of Jigawa residents and the state’s readiness to fulfil its obligations ahead of the 2027 Hajj exercise.
“In line with His Excellency Umar Namadi’s administration’s proactive commitment to meeting the state government’s obligations, the Council has approved the release of the sum of Three Billion, Five Hundred Million Naira as a loan to the State Pilgrims Welfare Board,” Mr Musa said.
According to him, the loan will enable the State Pilgrims Welfare Board to pay the required Hajj deposit for 466 intending pilgrims from Jigawa State.
He explained that the approval would ensure compliance with the directives of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which requires early payments to enable Saudi Arabian authorities finalise contractual arrangements for the pilgrimage.
Mr Musa noted that the early deposit would secure the state’s Hajj allocation and facilitate timely arrangements for accommodation, transportation, feeding and other essential services for pilgrims.
According to him, the council considered the early payment a strategic step toward ensuring effective planning and smooth coordination of all activities connected with the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The commissioner urged intending pilgrims to cooperate with the State Pilgrims Welfare Board by completing all registration requirements within the stipulated timelines to guarantee a successful pilgrimage.
Council approves reformatory school renovation
The Executive Council also approved the award of a contract worth ₦277,214,062.98 for the first phase of the renovation of the Reformatory School in Kafin Hausa.
Mr Musa said the project aligns with Governor Namadi’s commitment to strengthening the state’s correctional and rehabilitation system through the provision of modern facilities.
According to him, the renovation will upgrade the school’s infrastructure and create a safer, more secure and conducive environment for rehabilitation programmes.
He explained that the upgraded facility would help reform juvenile inmates by equipping them with skills, discipline and values needed for successful reintegration into society as responsible and productive citizens.
Mr Musa added that the project forms part of the Jigawa State Government’s broader social welfare agenda aimed at improving rehabilitation institutions, promoting restorative justice and addressing the root causes of juvenile crime while expanding opportunities for personal development and social inclusion.
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