From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto In a generous show of support to pilgrims from Sokoto State, Governor Ahmed Aliyu has donated 1,000 Saudi Riyals, equivalent to ₦450,000, to each of the 3,200 pilgrims performing this year’s Hajj, totalling over ₦1.44 billion in Sallah gifts. The announcement was made during the governor’s visit to the Sokoto pilgrims in Mina, Saudi Arabia, where he congratulated them on successfully completing the Hajj rites and commended their exemplary conduct throughout the pilgrimage. “I want to thank you most profoundly for being good ambassadors of our dear state in this holy land. I am indeed very proud of you; your maturity and high sense of responsibility during the Hajj rituals are commendable.” Aliyu said that the gesture is intended to assist the pilgrims financially as they prepare for their return to Nigeria. He reaffirmed his administration’s continued commitment to the welfare of Sokoto residents both at home and abroad. No pilgrim from Sokoto was reported to have violated Saudi laws during the Hajj, a fact the governor attributed to the high level of discipline and spiritual focus of the contingent. The governor also used the occasion to express condolences to the families of two deceased pilgrims, Hajiya Hadiza from Gudu and Bala Jangebe from Shagari Local Government Areas, who passed away during the pilgrimage. He prayed for Allah’s mercy on their souls and strength for their bereaved families. Governor Aliyu also called on the pilgrims to offer special prayers for Nigeria, especially for divine intervention to address the country’s insecurity challenges. “No matter the effort we are putting into addressing insecurity, prayer remains the best weapon to end the menace,” he stated. This year’s Hajj exercise marks another milestone in the state’s commitment to spiritual and social welfare, with the governor’s personal engagement and support leaving a strong impression on many in the Muslim community. Accompanying the governor, the State Amirul Hajj, Alhaji Ummarun Kwabo, praised the governor’s support for this year’s Hajj operations, noting that his intervention greatly contributed to a smooth and successful pilgrimage. He noted that all committees formed for the Hajj have been working round the clock, and the governor’s support has made their task much easier.