Kebbi Remits N21.5bn to NAHCON, Sets to Pay Additional N5bn

 Kebbi Remits N21.5bn to NAHCON, Sets to Pay Additional N5bn  

Birnin Kebbi -  The Kebbi State Government has remitted N21.5 billion to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, for the 2027 Hajj exercise and is set to pay an additional N5 billion.

The disclosure was made on Wednesday in Birnin Kebbi by the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro Enabo, during a courtesy visit by NAHCON officials to Governor Nasir Idris.

Alhaji Enabo said Kebbi currently has the highest number of registered intending pilgrims in the country. “Kebbi State has so far recorded 3,257 registered pilgrims, the highest in Nigeria,” Alhaji Enabo stated. “We have remitted N21.5 billion into NAHCON’s account and we are preparing to remit another N5 billion shortly.”

He attributed the feat to the support of Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu. “Whatever we need, whatever we ask the Governor, he approves immediately. He does not delay for one minute,” he said. “This support is why Kebbi continues to lead in Hajj operations.” Governor Idris commended NAHCON for the reforms being implemented in Hajj management, particularly in pilgrims’ airlift and safe return.

“The changes we are seeing show that capable and committed people are now managing NAHCON,” Governor Idris said. “Kebbi will continue to work with the Commission and embrace reforms, including the involvement of private operators.” “The only constant in life is change, and by God’s grace, we are ready for it,” he added. “We will sustain Kebbi’s position as one of the leading states in Hajj operations.”

The Governor linked the increase in Kebbi pilgrims to his administration’s agricultural empowerment programmes. “We have given our farmers fertiliser, power tillers, solar and CNG irrigation pumps, and herbicides free of charge,” Governor Idris explained. “This has improved their earnings and made it possible for more people to perform Hajj.”

He also reaffirmed his government’s decision to continue paying Hadyah for Kebbi pilgrims. “As long as I remain Governor, Kebbi pilgrims will not pay Hadyah. The state government will keep paying it for them,” Governor Idris declared.Leading the NAHCON delegation, the National Commissioner for North West, Sheikh Muhammad bin Uthman, conveyed greetings from the Commission’s Chairman, Ambassador Isma’il Abba Yusuf. He praised Governor Idris for his commitment to pilgrims’ welfare and described him as “a humble and dedicated leader.”

“We are visiting states ahead of the 2027 Hajj because governors are critical stakeholders in delivering a successful operation,” Sheikh bin Uthman said. “We commend Kebbi for recording the highest number of pilgrims last year and for managing them effectively. NAHCON will continue to partner with the state to improve welfare and safety.” A member of the delegation, Ishaq, also briefed the Governor on new guidelines from Saudi authorities.
“States must complete registration and upload pilgrims’ data before the deadline,” Ishaq stated. “Pilgrims must also undergo medical screening and obtain fitness certificates. Non-compliance could lead to sanctions, including restrictions from entering Saudi Arabia.”