By our reporter
The first batch of intending pilgrims from Sokoto State has been airlifted to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, marking the start of the state’s pilgrimage exercise.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, represented by his Deputy Alhaji Idris Muhammad Gobir, bids farewell to the pilgrims at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto.
The ceremony drew the attention of government officials, religious leaders, and management of the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, who gathered to pray for the safe departure of the pilgrims.
However, the Amirul Hajj and Leader of the State Government Delegation, Honourable Minister of Labour and Productivity Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Gobir congratulated the pilgrims for being among those chosen by Almighty Allah to perform the sacred pilgrimage this year.
He urged them to be good ambassadors of Sokoto State and Nigeria by conducting themselves with discipline, patience, and fear of Allah throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
The governor advised the pilgrims to obey all rules and regulations guiding the Hajj exercise and to avoid actions that could tarnish the image of the state or the country.
He stressed the importance of devoting time to prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity of Sokoto State and Nigeria at large while in Saudi Arabia.
Governor Aliyu assured the pilgrims of his administration’s continued support to ensure a successful and hitch-free Hajj operation.Governor Aliyu assured the pilgrims of his administration’s continued support to ensure a successful and hitch-free Hajj operation.
He commended the Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency for the arrangements put in place to safeguard the welfare and comfort of the pilgrims.
The governor prayed for Allah’s guidance and protection upon the pilgrims and wished them a safe journey and successful completion of their religious obligations.
In his remarks, Amirul Hajj Alhaji Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi congratulated the pilgrims on the opportunity granted by Allah and urged them to maintain unity and mutual understanding throughout the pilgrimage.
He called on them to comply with all directives issued by officials and Saudi authorities, and to pray fervently for Sokoto State, Nigeria, and its leaders.
The Sokoto State Pilgrims Welfare Agency said more batches would be airlifted in the coming days, with officials on ground to coordinate logistics and welfare for all intending pilgrims.
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