2027 Hajj: Zamfara weighs ₦1.3bn additional cost for pilgrims’ accommodation
2027 Hajj: Zamfara weighs ₦1.3bn additional cost for pilgrims’ accommodation
By Sadiq Sadiq, Gusau
The Zamfara Government says it is weighing the options of an additional ₦1.3 billion expenditure to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah for the state’s pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.
Gov. Dauda Lawal gave indication shortly after he received the report of the 2026 Amirul Hajj Committee chaired by the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru on Wednesday in Gusau.
Lawal, who commended the Amirul Hajj, for successful conduct of the exercise, however, said that the proposed expenditure must be carefully weighed against other pressing development needs of the state.
He pointed to development need including the provision of school infrastructure and hospitals that could benefit millions of residents for decades.
He commended the committee for its commitment and sacrifices in ensuring a successful pilgrimage, despite the challenges encountered by some pilgrims.
The Governor noted that the report contained eight recommendations requiring attention, assuring the committee that his administration would address issues within its jurisdiction.
Lawal explained that some challenges were beyond the control of the state government because Hajj operations were subject to the rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which could not be circumvented.
On accommodation, the Governor disclosed that he had received a memorandum from the State Hajj Commission proposing that Zamfara pilgrims needed to be accommodated closer to the Haram to reduce the hardship associated with travelling long distances to the Holy Mosque.
He said the proposal would require additional funding of about ₦1.3 billion, describing the cost as a major consideration in the state’s preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage.
Lawal assured that he would meet with the Secretary to the State Government and the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs to discuss possible ways of financing plan.
On transportation, the Governor explained that Saudi authorities imposed strict regulations on the number of vehicles permitted during the Hajj to ensure orderly movement and prevent congestion.
Earlier, the Amirul Hajj said the report highlighted the successes recorded during the 2026 pilgrimage as well as areas requiring urgent improvement.
Ahmad explained that the recommendations were aimed at improving the welfare and overall experience of Zamfara pilgrims during subsequent Hajj exercises.
According to him, a major recommendation was the need to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah to reduce transportation difficulties and ease pilgrims’ movement from the Holy Mosque.
The report is expected to guide the Government’s preparations for the 2027 Hajj operation.
The Recommendations of the report is expected address accommodation, transportation, medical services and other challenges identified during the 2026 exercise.END
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