With preparations for the 2026 Hajj reaching an advanced stage, the Kwara State Government has fixed May 6 for the commencement of airlifting intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, signalling the transition from planning to execution.
The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, made this known during an orientation programme for prospective pilgrims in Ilorin on Sunday, where final guidelines and travel arrangements were outlined.
“Airlift of intending pilgrims from Kwara State will commence on the sixth of next month from the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin to Saudi Arabia,” Abdulkadir stated, indicating that the exercise would begin in earnest from the state’s main international gateway.
He explained that departures would be staggered to ensure orderliness and efficiency.
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“The second batch of pilgrims will depart on the seventh, while the third batch will depart on the ninth of next month,” he added, underscoring efforts to avoid congestion and streamline the process.
Beyond logistics, authorities also highlighted new measures introduced by Saudi officials to enhance safety and coordination during the pilgrimage. Abdulkadir noted that identification systems had been upgraded for this year’s exercise.
“Saudi Arabia has produced ID cards containing pilgrims’ details, which will be issued to them upon arrival in Medina to enable them to perform their Hajj rites in Mecca,” he said.
On the preparedness of the state, Chairman of the Board, Mashood Mahmud-Jimba, assured participants that all critical arrangements had been concluded ahead of their departure.
“In Saudi Arabia, accommodation, transportation and tents at Mina and Arafat have been secured and are ready for the exercise,” he said, while also commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for supporting the process.
“I want to commend the Governor for his unwavering support in ensuring a smooth Hajj operation for Kwara pilgrims,” he added.
Religious leaders at the event emphasised the spiritual essence of the journey, urging pilgrims to maintain discipline and devotion throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
The Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Abdullateef Kamaldeen, advised participants to prioritise piety.
“Intending pilgrims must perform their Hajj with the fear of Allah,” Kamaldeen said.
He added, “You should remain patient while in the Holy Land in order to have a successful Hajj exercise.”
The enlightenment programme concluded with special prayers for a smooth and incident-free pilgrimage, as stakeholders expressed optimism that the state’s early preparations would translate into a seamless Hajj operation this year.
NOP NIGERIA
