Tears, Prayers, and Riyals: A Hajj to Remember with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf

It wasn’t the towering rituals or the sea of white garments that moved people most. It was the quiet figure of a Nigerian governor going tent to tent, pressing warm greetings into pilgrims’ hands—along with 250 Saudi Riyals—and whispering “Barka da Sallah” like a father greeting his children.

That man was Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State. And for the over 3,345 pilgrims under his care, this Hajj became more than a sacred journey. It became a profound reminder of what it means to be seen, honored, and deeply cared for.

“He walked with us,” said Alhaji Musa from Gwale, his voice thick with emotion. “Not as a politician. As one of us. As a brother.”

A Leader Who Delivered on His Promise

Governor Yusuf’s involvement began long before the first flight to Saudi Arabia. Back in Kano, standing before a gathering of hopeful pilgrims, he made a vow:

“We will not let the burden of cost block your path to the House of Allah.”

At first, he pledged 200 Riyals per pilgrim. But upon reaching the Kingdom, he raised it to 250 Riyals—a gesture that felt not only generous but deeply personal.

When currency volatility threatened the Basic Travel Allowance, he swiftly released ₦376 million in emergency funds to ensure every pilgrim received their full $500 entitlement.

“He didn’t just see us off,” said Hajiya Rabi from Dala. “He stayed with us—to Makkah, Mina, and Arafat. He checked our hotels, tasted our food, and asked about our bedding.”

He wasn’t staging a performance. He was showing up—for the people.

A Governor, A Guardian

In Mina, under Saudi Arabia’s sweltering heat, Governor Yusuf arrived quietly a day after Eid—no sirens, no grand entry, just humility.

He personally handed out 250 Riyals to each pilgrim, one by one. No one was left out. Over 3,345 people received his hand and his prayers.

“I cried when he gave me the money,” said Hajiya Safiya, a widow from Dawakin Tofa. “I never expected him to even visit, let alone remember someone like me.”

The gesture was never about the cash—it was about compassion. And presence.

Food, Dignity, and Care

For many, this was the most dignified Hajj they had ever experienced—not because of extravagance, but because of care.

In Makkah, pilgrims enjoyed two hot meals daily.

In the challenging terrains of Mina and Arafat, they were served three nutritious, familiar meals per day—delivered right to their tents.

It wasn’t just about feeding people—it was about ensuring comfort and respect.

“I’ve done Hajj before,” said Malam Bala, a retired teacher. “But this time, I never went hungry. I didn’t fall ill. I felt looked after.”

Governor Yusuf also ensured clean facilities, accessible healthcare via mobile clinics, and smooth coordination with Saudi authorities—particularly for the elderly.

More Than Words: Leadership with Purpose

Even amid the generosity, Governor Yusuf didn’t lose sight of the pilgrimage’s deeper meaning. He addressed the pilgrims with sincerity:

“You are here for your family, your state, and your country. Behave with humility. Remember, Saudi law is strict—avoid anything questionable.”

His tone was not that of a scolding official but of a father urging his children to walk the right path.

A Hajj Etched in Hearts

What pilgrims will remember most wasn’t the food or the funds. It was the presence—a governor who didn’t lead from afar, but knelt beside them in prayer and service.

“When I tell my children about Hajj 2025, I’ll say: ‘We went with a governor who stood with us, prayed for us, and cared for us,’” said Malama Hadiza, her voice quivering.

“Ya yi mana kamar uba”—He was like a father to us—echoed across the tents.

Final Reflection: The Hajj That Touched Souls

This pilgrimage wasn’t just about completing rituals. It was about shared tears, whispered prayers, and Riyals given not out of obligation but love.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reminded Nigerians—and leaders everywhere—that true leadership isn’t about protocol, distance, or titles.

It’s about presence. It’s about walking beside your people when they are most vulnerable—and reminding them, simply and powerfully, that they are not alone.

He walked with us. And we will never forget.

– Ibrahim Adam

Special Adviser on Information and Head, Hajj Media Team 2025

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