Kaduna State has successfully airlifted over 4,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj this year. The final group of more than 300 pilgrims departed with the state’s Amirul Hajj and Emir of Lere, Engineer Sulaiman Umar, and other officials,Dai;y Trust reports.
Max Air was the designated airline for Kaduna’s pilgrims.
Governor Uba Sani praised the officials of the state’s Pilgrims Welfare Agency for their dedication in ensuring the success of the 2024 Hajj. He urged them to ensure the pilgrims receive good value for their money during their stay in Saudi Arabia. The Amirul Hajj conveyed the governor’s commendation in a farewell message to the last batch of pilgrims at the Mando Hajj camp on Monday.
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The governor expressed gratitude for the agency’s efforts in securing quality accommodations for the pilgrims at competitive rates, noting that other states have followed Kaduna’s example. Additionally, the agency collaborated with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to arrange for reputable caterers to provide quality meals for the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
Engr. Umar reminded the pilgrims that Hajj is not just a journey to the Holy Land but an act of worship that should be performed according to Islamic teachings. He encouraged the pilgrims to follow the guidance of the preachers and Hajj officials accompanying them and to ask questions whenever needed.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, thanked the governor for providing the necessary support to the agency. He also commended the pilgrims, the airline, and agency officials for adhering to the schedule throughout the airlift.
In his vote of thanks, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Dabo (rtd), a board member, praised the media for their effective coverage and acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Immigration Service, Customs, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency for their prompt screening of the pilgrims.
