Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has approved the distribution of 1,000 Saudi Riyals to each of the 2,410 pilgrims from the state currently participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia. The donation, estimated at approximately N450,000 per pilgrim, was announced on the night of Thursday, May 28, in Mina by the Amirul Hajj and former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Muhammad Mai Gari Dingyadi.
According to a report by Punch, Dingyadi stated that the financial support was provided to assist the pilgrims with expenses as they prepare to conclude the pilgrimage and return to Nigeria. He explained that the gesture formed part of the administration’s commitment to the welfare of Sokoto indigenes, including those observing religious obligations outside the country.
Why Did Sokoto Pilgrims Receive Donation?
“Governor Ahmed Aliyu has approved the donation of 1,000 Saudi Riyals to each pilgrim from Sokoto State as a Sallah package to support them during their stay and return journey,” Dingyadi said. He also praised the conduct of the state’s pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia, noting that the delegation maintained discipline and complied with regulations throughout the exercise.
What Message Did Amirul Hajj Share?
“We are proud of the exemplary behaviour displayed by Sokoto pilgrims. None of them was involved in any violation of Saudi laws, and they have conducted themselves as worthy ambassadors of our state,” Dingyadi stated. He urged the pilgrims to maintain the same level of discipline until the completion of the Hajj rites and their eventual return home.
Dingyadi further emphasized that the Ahmed Aliyu administration remained focused on improving the welfare of residents across Sokoto State. “The present administration remains dedicated to improving the wellbeing of Sokoto citizens and ensuring continuous support for pilgrims and other residents of the state,” he added.
He also encouraged the pilgrims to pray for peace, security and unity in Sokoto State and across Nigeria. “I encourage all pilgrims to pray for the success of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration and for Allah to restore lasting peace and security in Sokoto State and across the country,” he said.
The 2026 Hajj exercise has attracted thousands of Muslim faithful from Nigeria and other countries to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Millions of Muslims worldwide converged in Saudi for the annual Hajj observance.
