First batch of Kano pilgrims set to depart Saudi Arabia after Hajj

The first group of pilgrims from Kano who performed this year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia has begun their journey back home.

On Saturday, the pilgrims left Makka and headed to the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. Their flight is scheduled to depart later in the evening.

The departure process started the previous night with the screening of their hand luggage to ensure compliance with the policies set by the National Hajj Commission. In the morning, the pilgrims gathered with their belongings and boarded luxurious buses to the airport.

Several pilgrims, including Zubairu Hudu Sani from Doguwa, Sirajo Hudu from Tudunwada, Maryam Abdullahi Garun Malam, and Hadiza Hamisu from Bebeji local governments, expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to perform the pilgrimage. They also commended Governor Yusuf for ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj experience.

Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Panda, the Director of Operations for the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, expressed his gratitude to Allah for the successful operations.

He mentioned that each pilgrim is expected to spend a minimum of 40 to 43 days in the Holy Land before being airlifted back to Nigeria.

“The return journey will be organized based on the principle of “first come, first leave” to ensure fairness and equity among the pilgrims” he said.

Alhaji Panda appealed to both the pilgrims and operators to conduct the return journeys in an orderly manner.

He also praised the leadership of Alhaji Laminu Rabiu and the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board for their dedication and efforts in ensuring a successful pilgrimage. The director extended his appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his support throughout the Hajj exercise.

The second and third batches of Kano pilgrims are scheduled to depart Makka on Monday, July 17th.

It would be recalled that the first flight carrying this year’s pilgrims from Kano to Saudi Arabia took place on Monday, June 5th, 2023.