A high-powered delegation from the Federal Ministry of Health, led by the Director of Port Health Services, Mrs. Bilkisu Idris Jibril, has paid an official visit to the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency as part of efforts to assess the state’s preparedness for the forthcoming Hajj operations.
A statement signed by the board public relations officer, Ibrahim Datti said the visit, which took place today 20th April,2026 at the Agency’s headquarters, was aimed at evaluating the readiness of facilities and health protocols put in place to ensure a safe and hitch-free pilgrimage for intending pilgrims from Kaduna State.
It said the delegation was warmly received by the Executive Chairman of the Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, alongside members of the management team.
In the course of the visit, the Executive Chairman conducted the delegation on a comprehensive inspection tour of the Hajj Transit Camp located in Mando, Kaduna.
The team carefully assessed critical facilities at the camp, including accommodation areas, medical units, sanitation facilities, water supply systems, and general environmental conditions to ascertain compliance with established public health standards.
Speaking during the inspection, Mrs. Bilkisu Idris Jibril stated that the Port Health Services Division plays a vital role in safeguarding public health, particularly in international travel such as Hajj.
She explained that the division is mandated to ensure that all transit camps and related facilities are conducive, hygienic, and fully compliant with both national and international health regulations before pilgrims are accommodated.
She further emphasized that one of the core responsibilities of Port Health Services is to prevent the importation and exportation of infectious diseases across borders.
According to her, thorough health screening, environmental assessments, and strict adherence to global health guidelines are essential in protecting not only the pilgrims but also the general public.
Mrs. Idris commended the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency for the level of preparation observed so far, noting that the facilities inspected were largely in good condition.
She, however, advised that continuous improvements and strict compliance with health protocols must be maintained to meet international best practices.
In his remarks, the Executive Chairman, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Health for the visit and assured the delegation of the Agency’s commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and well-coordinated Hajj operation.
He reiterated that the Agency places high priority on the health and well-being of pilgrims and will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure full compliance with all guidelines.
The visit forms part of the Federal Ministry of Health’s nationwide assessment and monitoring exercise ahead of the Hajj, aimed at ensuring that all states meet the required standards for the safe movement of pilgrims to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
