By Abdullahi Tukur
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, has formally bid farewell to the first batch of 418 intending pilgrims from the state who are lifted to Saudi Arabia for the commencement of 2026 Hajj exercise.
Addressing the pilgrims before their departure Sunday at the Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting them the opportunity to participate in this year’s Hajj.
Governor Idris, urged them to remain good ambassadors of the state and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land and to pray for peace to prevail in Kebbi State and the country at large.
The first flight took off Sunday evening and comprised 418 pilgrims from Aliero, Koko/Besse, Bunza and Kalgo Local Government Areas, as well as officials of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency.
He assured the pilgrims of improved welfare arrangements, including better accommodation closer to Haram Mosque in Mecca, feeding and Hadaya to all pilgrims from the state, noting that his administration remains committed to ensuring comfort and dignity for all pilgrims.
Governor Idris also disclosed that the government has sustained its tradition of supporting pilgrims through various incentives, including the sponsorship of Hadaya (sacrificial rites), as well as free transportation for Ziyarah (visits) to historical Islamic sites in Madinah.
While calling on political office holders and stakeholders to complement government’s efforts by supporting pilgrims from their respective areas, he urged the intending pilgrims to dedicate themselves to prayers for Kebbi State and Nigeria, especially at the plains of Arafat.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruk Musa Enabo, commended the Governor for his unwavering support to pilgrims. He highlighted key interventions such as the payment of Hadaya, improved feeding standards, and the provision of comfortable accommodation in Madinah.
In their separate remarks, Malam lawal Baiti Mai kwaltaa and Malam Abubakar Atiku Walin Kalgo preached on the obligations of the Hajj exercise and to uphold discipline, sincerity and devotion throughout the pilgrimage.
