The Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has criticised the Kebbi State Government for approving a N10 billion loan to secure an additional 1,300 Hajj slots for the 2026 pilgrimage.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, the group described the move as a misplacement of priorities, urging the state government to focus on critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation.
MURIC emphasised that the state should prioritise improving the welfare of residents rather than competing with other states in the number of pilgrims.
The group said, “Islam does not compel Muslims to go on Hajj unless they have the means. Borrowing huge sums for the pilgrimage is a misplacement of priorities.”
The organisation questioned the rationale behind borrowing N10 billion for Hajj sponsorship, noting that the amount could be used to address pressing development needs in the state.
According to MURIC, the sum could fund major road projects or the construction of several general hospitals, highlighting that the decision contrasts sharply with previous government spending on hospital rehabilitation and school construction.
The group also raised concerns over loan repayment, asking who would bear the burden of servicing the debt.
MURIC urged the Kebbi State Government to reassess its priorities, insisting that investments in education, health, security, poverty reduction, and youth employment would have a more lasting impact on residents’ lives.
It further called on both federal and state governments to withdraw from direct Hajj sponsorship, recommending that the exercise be handled by Muslim individuals and Islamic organisations, while government involvement be limited to protocol and coordination matters.
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