In a remarkable display of commitment to the welfare of Kwara State pilgrims, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has provided substantial financial assistance amounting to 264,280 Saudi riyals, equivalent to approximately N120 million, during an unannounced visit to the Kwara pilgrims’ accommodation in Makkah. This generous support was confirmed by the Kwara State Amiru Hajj and traditional ruler, the Oba of Ajase Ipo, Alhaji Ismail Yahaya, who spoke to newsmen in Makkah on Tuesday.
The governor’s intervention directly benefited 2,204 pilgrims from Kwara State, with each pilgrim receiving 120 riyals, translating to about N52,800 per individual. Alhaji Yahaya emphasized that the smooth and successful execution of the 2025 Hajj operations could largely be attributed to Governor AbdulRazaq’s unwavering backing of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. According to the Amiru Hajj, the governor has consistently approved virtually all requests submitted by the board, facilitating an efficient pilgrimage experience.
He recounted the governor’s surprise visit, noting that despite a late-night conversation with him earlier that day, there was no hint of the impending visit. “He came personally to check on us and assess how the pilgrims were faring. During that visit, he pledged a personal contribution of 120 riyals for every Kwara pilgrim,” the Amiru Hajj revealed.
Alhaji Yahaya also lauded the governor for establishing the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Kwara State well ahead of the 2025 Hajj season, highlighting that his own appointment as Amiru Hajj came shortly after Ramadan ended, allowing ample time for preparation. He further noted that the board’s enlightenment and orientation program for the pilgrims, which lasted about three weeks back in Kwara, was successfully conducted without any hitches. Various agencies collaborated to educate the pilgrims on the necessary protocols to ensure a trouble-free pilgrimage.
The Amiru Hajj added that the initial batch of pilgrims from Kwara State was airlifted directly to Madina, with 558 individuals making the journey. He expressed appreciation for the efficient coordination during the critical stages of the Hajj rites at Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat, specifically commending the efforts of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) alongside the proactive role of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s hands-on approach and timely financial support have once again underscored his administration’s dedication to the spiritual and logistical needs of Kwara State pilgrims, ensuring a dignified and seamless pilgrimage experience in 2025.
