The Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has confirmed the successful registration of more than 930 intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj exercise. This was revealed by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Saad Hassan, in an interview with Newsmen.
According to Alhaji Saad Hassan, preparations are in full swing to ensure a smooth Hajj operation for all registered pilgrims from Gombe State. He expressed satisfaction with the current level of arrangements, particularly in securing quality accommodation in Makkah a challenge that has plagued several other states.
Unlike some states that are still struggling to secure decent accommodation for their pilgrims, Gombe has been fortunate. We’ve made all necessary arrangements ahead of time, and our pilgrims will have nothing to worry about in terms of comfort and safety, he assured.
However, the Executive Secretary highlighted a significant challenge faced by many intending pilgrims across the country the issue of Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA). He explained that most pilgrims, especially those from rural areas, are unfamiliar with modern banking systems, particularly the use of ATM cards. This presents a complication following the Central Bank of Nigeria’s directive that BTA be issued via ATM cards instead of cash, as had been the tradition in the past.
In Gombe, a large number of our pilgrims come from rural areas and are not used to ATM transactions. Some of them don’t even have experience operating ATMs, and this creates unnecessary stress for them,” Alhaji Saad Hassan explained.
In response to this challenge, he revealed that the Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, intervened by approving a special local arrangement that allows BTA to be issued in cash rather than ATM cards.
“We are grateful to His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his swift and compassionate intervention. Thanks to his effort and deep concern for the welfare of our people, all Gombe pilgrims will receive their BTA in cash. This will ease their travel process and give them peace of mind, the Executive Secretary stated.
Looking ahead to the actual commencement of the pilgrimage, Alhaji Saad Hassan disclosed that the airlifting of Gombe State pilgrims to Saudi Arabia is scheduled to begin on May 13, 2025. He stressed that the board is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure a safe and organized departure.
In line with health and safety protocols, Alhaji Saad also announced that the board will not permit pregnant women or elderly individuals with serious medical conditions to partake in this year’s pilgrimage. This measure, he said, is aimed at preventing complications and ensuring the overall well-being of the pilgrims.
The Hajj is a physically demanding religious obligation. We cannot take risks with the lives of those who may not be medically fit to handle the stress. Our medical team is conducting thorough screenings to ensure everyone who travels is capable of performing the rites safely, he added.
As preparations continue, the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Board has reiterated its commitment to upholding the highest standards of service, welfare, and spiritual guidance for all intending pilgrims. With the continued support of the state government, the board says it remains confident of delivering a successful Hajj operation in 2025.