The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, has approved the provision of Haday (sacrificial rams) for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state currently performing the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
Haday, an essential Islamic rite involving the sacrifice of livestock, is mandatory for pilgrims observing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran, and forms a core component of the Hajj pilgrimage. The ritual commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and also serves a charitable purpose, with the meat distributed to the needy in the holy cities.
Under the arrangement approved by the governor, the sacrificial animals will be slaughtered during the days of Tashreeq, between the 10th and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, in line with Islamic injunctions governing the pilgrimage rites.
In addition to the Haday provision, Governor Zulum also approved the distribution of free Ihram garments for male pilgrims and khimar head coverings for female pilgrims to support their spiritual journey.
He further authorised payment of hotel accommodation differentials to ensure improved lodging conditions for the Borno State contingent in Makkah.
The interventions form part of the governor’s sustained welfare support for pilgrims from the state, particularly indigent participants, to ensure full and dignified participation in the annual pilgrimage.
Governor Zulum also urged the pilgrims to pray for lasting peace, stability and socio-economic progress in Borno State and Nigeria during their stay in the Holy Land.
