“Kebbi Releases ₦10 Billion to Secure Extra 1,300 Hajj Seats — Sparks Questions Over Priorities”

The government of Kebbi State has approved a ₦10 billion loan to the state’s Pilgrims Welfare Agency in order to secure an additional 1,300 seats for the upcoming 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, officials confirmed over the weekend.

According to the Chairman of the agency, Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, the intervention became necessary after only about 2,110 of the initial allocation had been paid for before the deadline, well below the quota usually filled by the state.

The extra funds allow intending pilgrims a fresh opportunity to secure seats for Hajj within the next ten days, with payments to be made at the agency headquarters in Birnin Kebbi or at designated local government offices, on a first‑come, first‑served basis.

While the move has been described by officials as a compassionate and decisive measure to ensure no willing pilgrim is left behind, some critics argue that the size of the allocation raises concerns about the state’s budget priorities, especially given existing needs in areas like water, health, and education.

Whether this intervention will deliver on the hopes of more inclusive access to Hajj for Kebbi residents — without undermining social services.