The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced training for its zonal officers on the use of dollar debit cards in preparation for the 2027 Hajj exercise.
According to The Punch, the training follows the introduction of new Hajj regulations by the Saudi Arabian authorities, as conveyed to states through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop on Wednesday at the board’s headquarters in Dutse, the Director-General, Ahmad Labbo, stressed that adequate preparation is essential for a seamless Hajj operation.
He explained that the capacity-building programme, organised in partnership with Guaranty Trust Bank, is the first of its kind and is intended to prepare officers to implement the newly introduced payment system.
According to Labbo, the training is designed to equip participants with the skills required to educate and assist intending pilgrims on the use of the dollar debit cards.
“Early preparation is very important to ensure efficiency and guarantee a successful Hajj operation,” Labbo stated.
He noted that the Saudi authorities’ introduction of the payment method makes it necessary for all state pilgrims’ welfare boards to quickly align with the new arrangement.
“The new regulations from Saudi Arabia, as mandated by NAHCON, make it compulsory for all states to adopt the dollar debit card for pilgrims’ transactions,” the DG said.
Labbo urged the officers to make good use of the knowledge gained during the training and ensure it is passed on to other officials and intending pilgrims across the state.
“I urge you to apply what you learn here and also mobilise other intending pilgrims to prepare them adequately for the journey,” he said.
He added that the collaboration with the bank was aimed at ensuring officers fully understand how the debit cards operate and are capable of helping pilgrims resolve any challenges that may arise.
“The training is to ensure that our officers are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills,” Labbo added.
Reaffirming the board’s commitment to the welfare of pilgrims, the Director-General pledged continued support throughout the Hajj process.
“We will continue to provide the necessary support to all our pilgrims to ensure a hitch-free and successful Hajj,” he stated.
Speaking after the session, a zonal officer, Hudu Muhammad, described the training as timely, saying it would kick-start a broader awareness campaign across local government areas ahead of the 2027 pilgrimage.
“This training has opened our eyes to how the new dollar debit card system will work. It will reduce cash-related problems for our pilgrims in Saudi Arabia,” Muhammad said.
Also speaking with The Punch, the Zonal Officer for Hadejia Zone, Muhammad Aminu, said the workshop had improved officers’ understanding of the new procedures and would enable them to better support intending pilgrims.
“We now understand the procedures better. I believe with this knowledge we can properly guide intending pilgrims and prevent confusion during the 2027 Hajj,” he stated.
The two officers also pledged to intensify sensitisation efforts in their respective zones to ensure intending pilgrims across Jigawa State are adequately informed before departure.
