The Jigawa State Executive Council has approved a ₦3.5 billion loan to enable the payment of the 2027 Hajj deposit for intending pilgrims from the state.
The Commissioner for Information, Youths, Sports and Culture, Sagir Musa, announced the approval while briefing journalists after the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Government House in Dutse.
Musa said the decision reflects Governor Umar Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of Jigawa residents.
According to him, the loan will be released to the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board to facilitate the payment of deposits for 466 intending pilgrims.
He explained that the approval is intended to ensure that the state complies with the requirements of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and secures the successful participation of its citizens in the 2027 Hajj exercise.
Musa said the loan would help the Pilgrims Welfare Board meet the deadline set by NAHCON, which is part of efforts to comply with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s requirement for early finalisation of contractual arrangements for Hajj operations.
He added that making the deposit early would secure Jigawa’s allocated Hajj slots and allow timely planning for accommodation, transportation, feeding and other essential services for the pilgrims.
The commissioner described the early payment as a strategic measure aimed at ensuring smooth planning and efficient coordination of all activities connected with the 2027 pilgrimage.
He urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate with the State Pilgrims Welfare Board by completing all registration requirements within the stipulated timelines to guarantee a successful Hajj exercise.
Council Also Approves Reformatory School Renovation
Musa further disclosed that the Executive Council approved the award of a contract for the first phase renovation of the Reformatory School in Kafin Hausa.
The project is valued at ₦277,214,062.98.
He said the approval is in line 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 provide a safe, secure and conducive environment for rehabilitation services.
Musa added that the facility is expected to help reform juvenile inmates and other residents by equipping them with skills, discipline and values needed for successful reintegration into society as responsible and productive citizens.
He said the project forms part of the government’s broader efforts to improve social welfare institutions, promote restorative justice and address the root causes of juvenile crime while creating opportunities for personal development and social inclusion.
