2027 Hajj Accommodation: Zamfara Plans Additional N1.3bn

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, says his administration is considering spending an additional N1.3 billion to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah for the state’s pilgrims during the 2027 Hajj.

The governor, however, said the proposed expenditure must be weighed against other pressing development needs, including the construction of schools and hospitals.

Lawal stated this at Government House, Gusau, while receiving the report of the 2026 Hajj exercise from the Amirul Hajj and Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad.

He commended the Amirul Hajj committee for its commitment and sacrifices in ensuring a successful pilgrimage despite the challenges some pilgrims encountered.

He said the report contained eight recommendations and assured the committee that the administration would address issues within its jurisdiction.

Lawal explained that some challenges were beyond the state government’s control, as Hajj operations were subject to Saudi Arabia’s rules and regulations.

Regarding accommodation, the governor disclosed that he had received a memorandum from the chairman of the State Hajj Commission proposing that pilgrims be accommodated closer to the Haram to reduce the hardship of travelling long distances to the Holy Mosque.

He said the proposal would require an additional N1.3 billion in funding, describing the cost as a major consideration in the state’s preparations for the next pilgrimage.

He said he would meet with the Secretary to the State Government and the Commissioner for Local Government to discuss possible ways of financing the arrangement.

The governor stressed that although the comfort and welfare of pilgrims remained important, his administration also had a responsibility to consider investments that would provide lasting benefits.

He explained that the money required to secure accommodation closer to the Haram for the 30- to 40-day pilgrimage could alternatively be invested in schools or hospitals that would serve the state for many years.

On transportation, he said 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 and Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad, said the report highlighted successes recorded during the 2026 pilgrimage as well as areas requiring urgent improvement.

He said the recommendations were aimed at improving the welfare and overall experience of Zamfara pilgrims.

According to him, a major recommendation was the need to secure accommodation closer to the Haram in Makkah to ease pilgrims’ movement.

The report is expected to guide the state government’s preparations for the 2027 Hajj, particularly in addressing accommodation, transportation, medical services, and other identified challenges.