Omonu Yakubu Nelson
Kogi State is set to introduce a Hajj Support Pool, where citizens can contribute ₦1,000 to help sponsor fellow Muslims to perform Hajj. The initiative aims to make the pilgrimage more accessible to those who cannot afford it.
Alhaji Abubakar Rajab, Director General of Kogi State Lottery Regulatory Commission, emphasized that the arrangement is a win-win, as those selected will fulfill their Islamic duty, while contributors will share in the reward.
The selection process will be transparent and conducted through a fair electronic system. Rajab stated, “Whoever is selected has received the call to Hajj by the will of Almighty Allah. Whoever is not selected will still share in the reward for supporting others in fulfilling this noble pillar of Islam.”
The initiative is inspired by Islamic teachings, including the Quranic verse, “And cooperate in righteousness and piety…” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:2). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said, “Whoever relieves a believer’s hardship, Allah will relieve his hardship on the Day of Judgment” (Sahih Muslim).
The Hajj Support Pool is part of efforts to promote Islamic values and community development in Kogi State. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has commended the Kogi State Hajj Commission for securing clearance for 460 Muslim pilgrims to perform the 2024 pilgrimage to Makkah.
The initiative encourages citizens to contribute, saying, “It’s time for us to support one another in achieving Hajj. We should not always wait for wealthy individuals to sponsor us; together, we can make it happen by the grace of Allah,” Rajab said.