The commitment of the Katsina State Government to the welfare of its pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has once again come to the fore as Governor Dikko Umar Radda fulfilled his promises of providing Hadaya and Sallah gifts to all pilgrims from the state performing the 2026 Hajj.
The development has been widely welcomed by the pilgrims, who described the gesture as unprecedented and a demonstration of the governor’s genuine concern for their welfare throughout the holy pilgrimage.
It would be recalled that before the commencement of the Hajj rites, Governor Radda assured all Katsina pilgrims that his administration would shoulder the cost of Hadaya and also provide them with special Sallah support to enable them perform hajj rites comfortably while in the holy land.
In fulfilment of that pledge, the governor approved and released four million naira for the Hadaya of all 2,035 pilgrims from Katsina State. The sacrifice has since been successfully carried out on behalf of the pilgrims, relieving them of the financial burden associated with the religious obligation.
The governor further fulfilled his second promise by approving a special Sallah gift of 300 Riyals with additional 100 riyals BTA for each pilgrim bringing the total financial support received by every pilgrim to 400 riyals support them during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The distribution of the Sallah gift was formally inaugurated by the Katsina State Hajj Committee, bringing joy and excitement among the beneficiaries who expressed gratitude to the governor for the timely intervention.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Amirul hajj of the Katsina State Hajj Committee Barrister Ahmad Usman El-Marzuq, commended Governor Radda for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the state’s pilgrims.
He noted that the governor had demonstrated exceptional leadership by ensuring that the pilgrims received both spiritual and material support throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Barrister El-Marzuq said the fulfilment of the promises reflected the governor’s sincerity and determination to make the Hajj exercise easier and more rewarding for the pilgrims.
He urged the pilgrims to reciprocate the gesture by continuously praying for Governor Radda, Katsina State and Nigeria, particularly at a time when the country is facing various socio-economic and security challenges.
According to him, prayers offered in the holy land hold immense significance and the pilgrims should use the opportunity to seek divine guidance, peace and prosperity for the state and the nation as a whole.
The Amirul hajj also praised the cordial relationship between the state government and the pilgrims, noting that the support being provided has contributed greatly to the smooth conduct of the Hajj operations involving Katsina contingents.
Beyond the financial support, Governor Radda has personally demonstrated concern for the welfare of the pilgrims through direct engagement and supervision during the pilgrimage.
The governor recently visited Katsina pilgrims in Mina, where he interacted with them, assessed their condition and reassured them of the state’s continued support throughout the Hajj period. The visit was received with enthusiasm as pilgrims appreciated the rare show of leadership and solidarity.
The pilgrims described the payment of Hadaya, the distribution of the 300 Riyals Sallah gift and the governor’s personal visit as a clear evidence of an administration committed to the welfare of its citizens.
They pledged to continue praying for the success of Governor Radda’s administration and for lasting peace, unity and development in Katsina State and Nigeria.
