The first batch of Gombe State pilgrims has departed Medina for Mecca to continue their Hajj rites, the state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board said on Friday.
According to a statement by the board’s media team, the pilgrims concluded their stay in Medina after visiting key Islamic sites, including the Prophet’s Mosque, Masjid Quba, the Mountain of Uhud, and the Jannatul Baqi’ cemetery.
We are deeply grateful to the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board. Their guidance made our visit to Medina smooth and spiritually meaningful,” said Hajiya Rabi Sulaiman, one of the pilgrims.
She also said, “They treated us like family, and we are proud to be part of this well-managed delegation.”
During their stay, the pilgrims visited the Prophet Muhammad’s (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) Mosque, where they offered prayers and extended their salutations at the Prophet’s tomb—an emotionally powerful experience for many.
They also performed prayers at Masjid Quba, the first mosque built by the Prophet (SAW) upon his arrival in Medina.
Fulfilling this Sunnah carries immense reward,” the board’s statement noted, referencing the mosque’s significance in Islamic tradition.
The pilgrims visited the historic Mountain of Uhud, site of one of the most notable battles in early Islam.
They paid respects to the martyrs, especially Hamza (RA), the Prophet’s beloved uncle, and reflected on the sacrifices made for the preservation of the faith.
Another spiritual highlight was a visit to Jannatul Baqi’, the sacred cemetery that houses the graves of many of the Prophet’s family members and companions.
The pilgrims offered prayers and connected with the legacy of the early Muslim community.
The board confirmed that all pilgrims remained in excellent health, attributing the incident-free stay to “proper care, preparation, and coordination by the authorities”.
Despite a demanding spiritual schedule, the group remained vibrant and enthusiastic.
Board officials accompanying the pilgrims also spoke on the delegation’s conduct.
We are satisfied with their discipline, unity, and devotion,” one official noted. “They are spiritually and physically ready for the next phase of the Hajj.”
The pilgrims themselves were not short of praise.
The level of coordination and care we received is beyond commendable,” said Alhaji Musa Adamu, another pilgrim.
From medical attention to religious guidance, everything was timely and efficient.”
The statement emphasised that the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board remains committed to ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for all batches of pilgrims.
Officials pledged continued support and monitoring throughout their time in Mecca and Mina.
