The Katsina State Government has approved a N3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

Governor Dikko Radda confirmed this in Katsina over the weekend during the official farewell for the state’s intending pilgrims departing for the Saudi Arabia.

He said the intervention became necessary after the state initially faced financial challenges in meeting its allocated Hajj slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

Radda said:“I was informed that the state initially had difficulty meeting its allocated Hajj slots. “In response, we approved a N3.8 billion loan, which enabled Katsina state to secure and fill 3,890 slots for this year’s Hajj.”

He urged pilgrims to pray for lasting peace, unity, and improved security in Katsina state and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.

He also announced that the state government would sponsor Hadaya for all intending pilgrims to enhance their welfare during the pilgrimage.