The first batch of intending pilgrims from Kebbi State to perform the 2026 Hajj rites has departed for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
At a farewell ceremony held at the Permanent Hajj Camp in Birnin Kebbi, the pilgrims, drawn from Aliero, Koko/Besse, Bunza, and Kalgo Local Government Areas, alongside officials of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (PWA), were seen off.
The event was attended by top government officials, religious leaders, and families of the intending pilgrims.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, while addressing the gathering, expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting the pilgrims the opportunity to perform Hajj, urging them to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Kebbi State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the holy land.
The governor also called on political office holders and stakeholders to support pilgrims from their respective communities, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring a successful pilgrimage.
According to him, “I encouraged you to devote yourselves to prayers for Kebbi State and Nigeria, particularly at the plains of Arafat, a significant site during the Hajj rites.”
Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruk Musa Yaro, earlier commended the governor for his sustained support to intending pilgrims.
He noted that the interventions by the state government, including the payment of Hadaya, improved feeding arrangements, and the provision of comfortable accommodation in Madinah, were commendable efforts by the state government.
Yaro disclosed that all pilgrims from Kebbi State would be airlifted directly to Madinah via Flynas, assuring that adequate logistics had been put in place to ensure a smooth and hitch-free Hajj operation.
