IHR lauds Governor Namadi’s support for Muslim pilgrims, names him patron

The Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) has appointed the Governor ofJigawa State, Umar Namadi, as its national patron in recognition of his support for Muslim pilgrims and contributions to the development of the Hajj industry.

The appointment was announced during the IHR Post-Hajj Lecture held at the National Mosque, Abuja, on August 20.

Speaking on the appointment, IHR National Coordinator, Ibrahim Muhammad, said the decision reflected the organisation’s recognition of Namadi’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims and his efforts to improve Hajj operations.

Muhammad said the appointment was also in line with IHR’s objectives of advocating for and protecting the interests of Nigerian Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, as well as providing information and education for intending pilgrims.

“We align ourselves with His Excellency because of his trademark commitment to providing assistance to Jigawa pilgrims since his assumption of office and his extraordinary interest in catering to the welfare of Nigerian Hajj pilgrims,” he said.

Receiving the plaque on behalf of the governor, the Director-General of the Jigawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ahmed Labo, thanked IHR for the recognition, saying Namadi had accepted the appointment with a full sense of responsibility.

Labo said the governor had, since assuming office, provided financial support to the state pilgrims’ board to safeguard the Hajj slots allocated to Jigawa. He added that the government had sponsored Islamic scholars, medical personnel and other support staff to assist pilgrims during the pilgrimage.

He also highlighted other welfare initiatives for Jigawa pilgrims, including the provision of lunch and Sallah gifts, saying the measures were aimed at making the pilgrimage easier and more comfortable for the state’s pilgrims.