By GARBA MUHAMMAD

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that knowing pilgrims are having challenges with their Basic Travel Allowances (BTA) therefore he has provided additional US $300 to each pilgrim apart from their $420, taking the BTA to US$ 720 for each pilgrim whether under public or private quota.

The Governor made the disclosure while addressing the pilgrims in preparation for their airlift at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa on Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

He said his wish for them is to carry out their religious obligations conveniently and to have the capacity to carry out their Hadaya rite with ease.

He charged them not to engage in acts that will bring the state and the country to disrepute, but be great ambassadors.

He also tasked them to engage in special prayers that will bring blessings and development to the country, stating that the pilgrims were privileged to embark on the holy journey.

“We believe strongly that you're going to be good ambassadors to us. You will not do anything to bring any form of shame to us. So I want to join the Hajj Commission and every one that has supported in one way or the other to say journey mercy. Come back with blessings that will bring development and growth to our dear country.

“I wish you well and also say you're privileged to embark on this holy journey. What you owe the country and State is prayers for a better country and better state,” Governor Fubara said.

Speaking, the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Muslim Pilgrims Board, Alhaji Diepriye Abdulrasaq, commended the governor for his kind gesture to sponsor the pilgrims to this year's Hajj, noting that without God and the Governor's fatherly support the exercise would not have been successful.

He said the Muslim community in Rivers State were excited about the priority attention the Governor has given to the welfare of Muslims in the state since his assumption of office.

He assured that Muslims will continue to be law abiding citizens and pray for Rivers State as a mark of gratitude for the Governor's goodwill.

According to the Sole Administrator, this year's Pilgrim consist of 45 state sponsored persons, while five are self sponsored.

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