Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has blessed 2,410 pilgrims with cash gifts during their Hajj journey. Each pilgrim receives 1,000 Saudi Riyals, valued at approximately N450,000.
Alhaji Muhammad Mai Gari Dingyadi made the announcement Thursday evening in Mina. He serves as Sokoto's Amirul Hajj and Minister of Labour and Productivity.
According to him, the governor sent this money as a Sallah gift. It's meant to help pilgrims cover expenses as they head back home.
Dingyadi praised how the pilgrims conducted themselves throughout their stay. None of them violated Saudi Arabian laws, he noted with satisfaction.
"I am highly impressed with the discipline, patience and good conduct demonstrated by our pilgrims during this year's Hajj exercise," the minister stated. Their behaviour, he added, has reflected positively on Sokoto State and Nigeria's image.
He urged them to maintain this standard of obedience and responsibility. Such conduct, in his view, made them fitting ambassadors for their state.
Dingyadi reassured the pilgrims about Governor Aliyu's continued dedication to their welfare. His administration remains committed to the people of Sokoto State, he said.
He called on them to pray for the government's success. Prayers for peace and security across Nigeria are equally important, he added.
The minister made a special plea for sustained prayers against insecurity. He wants the pilgrims to intercede for solutions to the nation's security challenges.
This gesture comes as Sokoto continues managing security threats within its borders. The state has faced persistent banditry and other criminal activities in recent months.
