Kebbi State Gov Appoints Emir of Argungu as Amirul Hajj for 2025

… Unveils Oil Exploration Prospects

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has approved the appointment of the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Mera, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2025 pilgrimage, reinforcing state-level commitment to seamless Hajj operations. The announcement comes alongside fresh developments on oil exploration in the state, positioning Kebbi as a potential new entrant into Nigeria’s petroleum economy.

According to a statement by Secretary to the State Government, Yakubu Bala, the appointment of the Amirul Hajj is part of broader logistical arrangements to guarantee efficient coordination of Hajj operations for Kebbi pilgrims in both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. A delegation of respected community and religious leaders has also been inaugurated to oversee implementation.

In a related economic development, Governor Idris revealed that recent certification confirmed the commercial viability of oil deposits in Kebbi State. This opens the door for petroleum exploration and eventual exploitation—a move with significant revenue and employment implications for the largely agrarian state.

Speaking during a reception for Abubakar Shettima, newly appointed MD of the Rima River Basin Development Authority, the governor said,

“Kebbi is blessed with untapped mineral resources including petroleum, and our government is committed to harnessing them to drive economic growth.”

The twin announcements reflect the state’s push to diversify its economy—balancing religious administration with energy sector development.