The first batch of 550 intending pilgrims from Jigawa State has departed to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj exercise.
The pilgrims were airlifted from the Nuhu Muhammadu Sunusi International Airport, Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, on Monday.
While bidding farewell to the pilgrims and inaugurating the first flight, the state Governor Umar Namadi, urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the country and pray for Nigeria and their state while performing the Hajj exercise.
Namadi said, “As you embark on this sacred journey, remember to conduct yourselves in a manner that reflects positively on our state and country.”
He added, “Your actions and behavior should be a representation of the values and principles that our society holds dear, and we expect you to be ambassadors of our state and country in the true sense of the word.”
The governor further emphasised the importance of prayer during the Hajj.
While performing the Hajj rituals, don’t forget to pray for the peace, prosperity, and progress of our great nation, Nigeria, and our beloved state, Jigawa,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the pilgrims’ supplications would bring blessings and prosperity to the state and the country at large.
The governor, therefore, wished the pilgrims a safe and successful journey, saying, “I pray that Allah accepts your sacrifices, grants you a successful Hajj, and returns you to us with joy and happiness.”
He also assured the pilgrims of the state’s commitment to their welfare and safety, both during their journey and upon their return.
Earlier, the Director General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ahmed Labbo, said the first flight comprised pilgrims drawn from 24 local government areas of the state, showcasing the board’s commitment to inclusivity.
The local governments include Kazaure, Roni, Gwiwa, Yankwashi, Gumel, Gagarawa, Garki, Maigatari, Sule Tankarkar, Babura, Jahun, Miga, Kafin Hausa, Auyo, Hadejia, Kirikasamma, Guri, Birniwa, Malam Madori, Dutse, Kiyawa, Ringim, and Gwaram,” he stated.
The Director General commended the state security agencies for their role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the screening exercise at both the Hajj camp and the airport.
Labbo also expressed gratitude to the state governor, Malam Umar Namadi, for his support and cooperation with the board.
We appreciate the governor’s commitment to facilitating a successful Hajj experience for our pilgrims,” he said.
However, the DG has assured the pilgrims that the board will provide them with all the necessary support for a successful and fulfilling experience of the Hajj exercise.
Highlighting on the arrangements made, the Director of Operations of the Board, Sabo Aujara, stated that the board had prepared adequately for the exercise and mentioned the involvement of federal agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Immigration, and Customs in a ensitising the pilgrims on permissible and prohibited items.
The first batch of the Jigawa State pilgrims were airlifted by Max airline 747 plane at about 10:30pm, marking the beginning of their spiritual journey for the year 2025 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
