Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has announced significant reforms to the state’s Hajj operations, noting that unproductive personnel will no longer be permitted to accompany pilgrims to the holy land.
In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, said the announcement came when the Governor received the 2024 Hajj delegation report from State Amirul Hajj, Alhaji Tukur Ahmed Jikamshi.
The Governor stressed that public funds would not be expended on individuals who are not committed to serving pilgrims diligently.
Governor Radda further noted that he conducted meetings with the chairmen of the 34 local governments to ensure only qualified scholars are selected as preachers for future Hajj operations. “The state administration will hold the Pilgrims Welfare Board accountable for any involvement of non-serious staff in future operations,” the Governor emphasized.
Governor Radda also promised to establish a media committee for improved coverage of Hajj activities and promised to carefully review all recommendations in the report submitted by Hajj committee.
In presenting the delegation’s report, Alhaji Tukur Ahmed Jikamshi, former state deputy governor and current Amirul Hajj, highlighted several critical issues requiring attention.
He stressed the necessity of empowering the Pilgrims Welfare Board to handle the screening of scholars, noting that many of the current local government-appointed preachers lack proper qualifications to guide pilgrims effectively.
The delegation report also identified concerns regarding medical services provided by NAHCON, citing accessibility issues at their locations. Reacting to this, Alhaji Jikamshi recommended establishing a dedicated state clinic with new ambulance services to ensure better medical care for Katsina Pilgrims.
The Amirul Hajj further raised concerns about non-Nigerians being accommodated among state pilgrims and suggested enhanced screening procedures.
Speaking further, the delegation acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the Zakat and Waqaf management, the State Assembly Committee on Religious Affairs, and the Pilgrims Board Management staff, in ensuring the success of the 2024 Hajj operations.