Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, has approved the provision of Haday (sacrificial rams) for 1,725 indigent pilgrims from the state currently participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
The Haday, an important Islamic rite involving the sacrificial slaughter of a ram or other approved livestock, is compulsory for pilgrims observing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran — the forms of pilgrimage commonly undertaken by international pilgrims.
The ritual, which commemorates the obedience and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), forms a key component of Hajj rites and also serves as an act of charity, with the meat distributed to needy pilgrims and residents of the holy cities.
According to the arrangement approved by Governor Zulum, each sacrificial animal will be slaughtered during the days of Tashreeq, from the 10th to the 12th of Dhul Hijjah, in line with Islamic injunctions.
Beyond the Haday support, the governor also provided free Ihram garments for male pilgrims — the white seamless attire symbolising purity and equality before Allah — as well as khimar head coverings for female pilgrims.
In a further effort to improve the welfare of the pilgrims, Governor Zulum approved payment of hotel differentials to secure more comfortable accommodation for the Borno contingent in Makkah.
The Governor has consistently sustained similar interventions over the years to ensure that indigent pilgrims from the state are not denied the opportunity to fully perform their religious obligations during Hajj.
Governor Zulum also urged the pilgrims to offer fervent prayers for lasting peace, stability and prosperity in Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.
