Sani Haruna
The Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the collection of deposits for the 2026 Hajj exercise and Ramadan Umrah, following what has been described as the state’s most successful Hajj operation in recent years.
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Speaking to journalists shortly after a stakeholders’ meeting at the Hajj Camp in Birnin Kebbi, the Board Chairman, Alhaji Faruq Yaro Musa, said the 2025 Hajj exercise stood out among the 36 states of the federation.
He attributed the success to the exemplary conduct, discipline, and religious devotion displayed by Kebbi pilgrims throughout the exercise.
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Alhaji Faruq praised the Kebbi State Government for its consistent support, which he said contributed greatly to ensuring a hitch-free, credible, and well-organized Hajj operation.
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He further disclosed that intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj are to deposit ₦8.5 million, while the cost of Umrah during Ramadan has been pegged at ₦3 million, inclusive of passport and related fees.
The Board Chairman also expressed appreciation to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for its support before, during, and after the 2025 exercise—especially in cases where pilgrims fell ill.
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Highlighting one such case, Alhaji Faruq revealed that Governor Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu), in collaboration with the Board and NAHCON, took full responsibility for the medical treatment of Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Ajiga, a pilgrim who was hospitalized in Saudi Arabia after being diagnosed with tuberculosis.
Ajiga, who spent four months receiving treatment in four top Saudi hospitals before being airlifted back to Nigeria, expressed gratitude to Governor Idris, the Pilgrims Welfare Board, and NAHCON for their care and intervention, which restored his health.
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“After performing my Hajj rites, I fell sick and was admitted into different hospitals until my full recovery. I deeply appreciate the Governor and the Board for standing by me throughout this difficult period,” Ajiga said.
The Kebbi Pilgrims Welfare Board reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare, safety, and comfort of all intending pilgrims as preparations for the 2026 Hajj and Ramadan Umrah gather momentum.