Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno State has approved the provision of Hadaya (sacrificial rams) for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.

The Hadaya, an Islamic rite involving the sacrificial slaughter of livestock, is mandatory for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran, which are among the most common forms of Hajj observed by pilgrims from outside Saudi Arabia.

According to a statement on Tuesday by Dauda Iliya, the Special  Adviser to the Governor on Media, the gesture is part of the governor’s continued support to ensure that indigent pilgrims from Borno are able to fully perform all rites associated with the pilgrimage.

He explained that each ram or its equivalent livestock would be slaughtered during the days of Tashreeq, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, in line with Islamic injunctions.

In addition to the Hadaya, the governor also approved the provision of free Ihram garments for male pilgrims and khimar (head coverings) for female pilgrims from the state.

Iliya further disclosed that Zulum also  paid hotel differentials to secure improved and more comfortable accommodation for the Borno pilgrims in Makkah.

He noted also that the governor had consistently supported pilgrims from the state over the years by approving funds for the purchase of Hadaya to ensure that no registered indigent pilgrim is denied the opportunity to complete the Hajj rites.

“Zulum also urged the pilgrims to intensify prayers for lasting peace, stability and prosperity in Borno and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

(NAN)