Governor Fubara Urges Hajj Pilgrims to Uphold Rivers State’s Dignity
Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State sent off pilgrims embarking on this year’s Hajj with a spiritual challenge and a financial boost.
During a send-off ceremony at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Fubara urged the pilgrims to be “great ambassadors” for the state and Nigeria.
He emphasised the importance of their prayers for the nation’s well-being and development.
“This is a holy journey, and you are privileged to undertake it,” Fubara said. “We believe you will represent us well and not bring shame to our state.”
The Governor also addressed a concern many pilgrims face: Basic Travel Allowances (BTA). Understanding the challenges, Fubara announced an additional $300 for each pilgrim on top of the standard $420 allocation. This brings the total BTA to a comfortable $720 for all pilgrims, public or private.
“I want you to be able to perform your religious obligations with ease,” Fubara explained, “and to have the resources to carry out the Hadaya rite (sacrificial offering) comfortably.”
The Sole administrator of the Rivers State Muslim Pilgrims Board, Alhaji Diepriye Abdulrasaq, expressed his gratitude to the Governor. “Without God and His Excellency’s fatherly support,” Abdulrasaq said, “this Hajj wouldn’t be possible.”
He lauded Governor Fubara’s commitment to the Muslim community’s well-being since taking office.
Abdulrasaq assured the governor of the Muslim community’s continued law-abiding behavior and pledged prayers for Rivers State in return for the governor’s goodwill.
This year’s pilgrimage sees 45 pilgrims sponsored by the state and 5 embarking on the journey privately. Abdulrasaq highlighted that Governor Fubara is the first in the nation to fully fund his state’s Hajj contingent, a source of great pride for the pilgrims.
