GOVERNOR ZULLUM INAUGURATES A 22-MAN HAJJ COMMITTEE 28-04-24
By Sadiq Aminu The Borno state Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has tasked the 2024 Hajj committee to ensure the welfare and proper conduct of pilgrims during the forthcoming Hajj exercise.
Governor Zulum gave the directive while inaugurating the 22-member Amirul Hajj committee under the Chairmanship of the Senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan at Government House, Maiduguri.
He assured that the state government will continue to improve on the welfare of pilgrims, explained that the state government has top up additional 450 Saudi riyads for every intending pilgrim to secure a befitting accommodation in the holy land.
The Governor charged the committee members to work diligently towards meeting the expectations of pilgrims from Borno State.
He said, “I urge you to be dedicated in order to reduce some of the complaints by pilgrims.”
Zulum also announced plan to reorganise the pilgrims welfare board to become a commission in order to reduce the financial burden and effective operation of Hajj exercise.
“We have to reorganise the Pilgrim Welfare Board; we shall convert the board to a commission. Establishing a commission reduces government spending and ensures more accountability and transparency,” Zulum said.
The Governor remarked that in the last four years, the state Deputy Governor Alhaji Umar Kadafur had been chairing the Hajj Committee, but because he will also be participating in the pilgrimage, Senator Kaka Shehu was appointed in order not to create leadership vacuum.
Responding, Chairman of the 2024 Hajj committee, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan assured to work tirelessly to implement the terms of reference of the committee.
He solicited support of members of the committee, whom he described as men and women of proven integrity in ensuring the success of the exercise.
The chairman also appealed for support of the media, security operatives, and all stakeholders in the Hajj exercise for a smooth operation.