The Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruku Aliyu-Yaro, has commended Governor Nasir Idris for approving the release of a N10 billion loan to secure 1,300 extra Hajj seats for the state’s intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Aliyu-Yaro gave the commendation during a press conference held on Saturday at the agency’s headquarters in Birnin Kebbi.
He described the governor’s swift intervention as “gigantic, decisive and humanitarian,” noting that it saved many intending pilgrims who were at risk of missing the spiritual exercise due to the earlier payment deadline fixed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
NAHCON had set December 5 as the final date for payment of the 2026 Hajj fare, with no provision for extension.
However, following Governor Idris’ approval of the N10 billion facility, Kebbi State secured additional slots and an extension to enable more pilgrims complete their payments.
Aliyu-Yaro announced that intending pilgrims from all 21 Local Government Areas now have until December 16 to pay the sum of N7,696,769.79 through their Local Government Hajj Guides or directly at the agency’s headquarters.
“I am glad to announce the extension of the payment deadline for the 2026 Hajj to 16 December 2025. This follows the release of N10 billion by Governor Nasir Idris to secure 1,300 additional Hajj seats.
“With this development, the door is now open for all intending pilgrims to make their payments up to Monday, 16 December 2025,” he said.
He added that the intervention ensures that no eligible resident willing to perform the pilgrimage next year is left behind.
The Chairman further explained that the governor’s action not only protected the state’s original Hajj allocation but also provided financial relief and renewed hope for many intending pilgrims.
He assured that the agency has already begun processing payments, documentation, and other preparatory requirements for qualified applicants.
Aliyu-Yaro also disclosed that NAHCON has officially approved Flynas as the carrier that will airlift Kebbi’s 2026 pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia.
He praised Governor Idris for what he described as a compassionate and people-centred gesture, adding that Kebbi State continues to stand out for early planning and strong commitment to citizens’ welfare.
“Kebbi continues to distinguish itself through early preparation and firm dedication to public welfare under the leadership of Governor Idris and with the support of his wives, Hajiya Zainab-Nasare Idris and Hajiya Nafisa Idris.
“We began preparations for the 2026 Hajj about seven to eight months ago.
“We pray to retain our position as the best state in Hajj preparation, operation, and conduct across Nigeria,” he said.
