The Katsina State 2026 Hajj Committee has held its inaugural meeting, formally commencing preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage following its inauguration by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda last Monday.
The meeting brought together members of the committee alongside the board and management of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, highlighting a coordinated approach to the planning and execution of the Hajj exercise.

Chairman of the committee and Amirul Hajj, Alhaji Ahmed Usman El-Marzuq, said the committee would work diligently to deliver a smooth and successful Hajj operation, in line with the mandate given by the state government.

Alhaji Yunusa Abdullahi Dankama
At the meeting, the Executive Director of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Yunusa Abdullahi Dankama, presented an initial briefing on the state of preparations, outlining key timelines and operational considerations.

Dr. Nasiru Ɗan-Zaria
He was followed by the Director of Operations, Dr. Nasiru Ɗan-Zaria, who gave a detailed presentation on logistics and coordination strategies, identifying priority areas requiring early attention.
Also present was the Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Kabir Bature, Sarkin Alhazai, alongside other board members and senior management staff.

Discussions at the meeting focused on critical aspects of the Hajj exercise, including pilgrim registration, transportation, welfare services, and coordination with relevant stakeholders both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The committee also stressed the importance of effective communication throughout the Hajj process, noting that timely and accurate information would be essential to ensuring a seamless experience for intending pilgrims and their families.
Membership of the committee cuts across key sectors. Alhaji Ahmed Tijjani Abdulkadir, Chairman of the Katsina State Radio and Television Services, represents the media, while Hajaratu Hajjo Lawal represents the judiciary.

The committee is expected to develop a comprehensive work plan to guide all stages of the 2026 Hajj, as preparations gather momentum.

