From Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the provision of Hadayah (sacrificial rams) for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state currently performing the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
The Hadayah, an Islamic ritual involving the sacrificial slaughter of a ram (or equivalent livestock), is a mandatory act for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu (the most common form of Hajj for non-residents) or Hajj al-Qiran.
Hadayah is a sacred act of worship that commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and completes key rites of the Hajj exercise.
He said, beyond its spiritual symbolism, the sacrifice serves as an expiation for certain rites and a means of feeding the poor, with the meat distributed to needy pilgrims and residents of the holy cities.
Each ram (or equivalent livestock) will be slaughtered on the days of Tashreeq (10th–12th of Dhul Hijjah) in accordance with Shariah guidelines.
In addition to the Haday, Zulum has also provided free Ihram garments for male pilgrims, the two-piece white seamless cloth symbolising equality and purity and khimar (head coverings) for female pilgrims.
The governor equally paid hotel differentials to secure more conducive and comfortable accommodation for the Borno contingent in Makkah.
Zulum has consistently approved funds for the purchase of Hadaya for Borno pilgrims over several Hajj seasons, ensuring that no registered indigent pilgrim is left unable to complete their religious duties.
The Governor equally charged the Pilgrims to intensify prayers for peace and prosperity in Borno and the country at large.
