The Gombe State Government has released N5 billion to secure more than 950 Hajj seats allocated to the state for the 2026 pilgrimage, fulfilling the December 5, 2025 payment deadline set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, confirmed the development while briefing journalists in his office.
He explained that the funds were provided as a loan to the board to ensure the state does not forfeit its allocation due to late payment.
According to him, intending pilgrims are expected to complete payment for the 2026 Hajj before the end of December 2025, after which the board will refund the state government.
Hassan commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for what he described as a timely and strategic intervention aimed at protecting the interests of Muslim pilgrims in the state.
He urged all intending pilgrims to make early payments, noting that allocation of the seats will be done strictly on a first come, first served basis.