Hajj pilgrims used to illustrate the story [Credit: Daily Trust]
The Zamfara government says it is weighing options to spend an additional ₦1.3 billion to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Mecca for pilgrims during the 2027 hajj.
Governor Dauda Lawal gave the indication shortly after receiving the report from the 2026 Amirul Hajj Committee, chaired by the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru, on Wednesday in Gusau.
Mr Lawal, who commended the amirul hajj for successfully conducting the exercise, said the proposed expenditure must be carefully weighed against other pressing development needs of Zamfara. He pointed to development needs, including school infrastructure and hospitals that could benefit millions of residents for decades.
He commended the committee for its commitment and sacrifices in ensuring a successful pilgrimage, despite the challenges some pilgrims encountered.
The governor noted that the report contained eight recommendations requiring attention, assuring the committee that his administration would address issues within its jurisdiction.
Mr Lawal explained that some challenges were beyond the state government’s control because Hajj operations were subject to the rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which could not be circumvented.
On accommodation, the governor said he received a memorandum from the state’s hajj commission proposing that Zamfara pilgrims be accommodated closer to the Haram to reduce the hardship of travelling long distances to the holy mosque.
He said the proposal would require additional funding of about ₦1.3 billion, describing the cost as a major consideration in the state’s preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage.
Mr Lawal said he would meet with the secretary to the state government and the commissioner for local government affairs to discuss ways to finance the plan.
On transportation, the governor explained that Saudi authorities imposed strict regulations on the number of vehicles permitted during the Hajj to ensure orderly movement and prevent congestion.
The amirul hajj said the report highlighted successes during the 2026 pilgrimage, as well as areas needing urgent improvement. He explained that the recommendations were aimed at improving the welfare and overall experience of Zamfara pilgrims during subsequent Hajj exercises.
(NAN)
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