Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has donated 1,000 Saudi Riyals each to the 3,200 pilgrims from the state currently performing the 2025 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The donation, which amounts to a total of 3.2 million Riyals, approximately ₦1.44 billion in Nigerian currency, was announced during the governor’s official visit to the pilgrims’ camp in Mina. The gesture, described as a Sallah gift, was aimed at easing the financial needs of the pilgrims as they complete the final stages of their religious rites.
Addressing the pilgrims, Governor Aliyu commended them for their exemplary behaviour throughout the Hajj exercise. He expressed pride in the discipline and decorum displayed by the pilgrims, noting that their conduct reflects positively on Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole.
“I thank you sincerely for being good ambassadors of our dear state here in the holy land. Your maturity, sense of responsibility, and peaceful conduct are commendable,” he said.
During the visit, the governor also extended his condolences to the families of two deceased pilgrims, Hajiya Hadiza from Gudu Local Government Area and Bala Jangebe from Shagari Local Government Area, who passed away during the pilgrimage. He prayed for the repose of their souls and comfort for their grieving families.
In his remarks, the Amirul Hajj for Sokoto State, Alhaji Ummarun Kwabo, praised the governor for the timely intervention, saying the support had contributed immensely to the smooth coordination and welfare of the state’s pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj operations.
Governor Aliyu further urged the pilgrims to pray for the peace, unity, and development of Nigeria, particularly in light of the country’s ongoing efforts to address security and economic challenges.
The donation has been widely welcomed by the pilgrims, many of whom said it would ease their burden as they prepare for their return journey to Nigeria.
