By Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The first batch of intending pilgrims from Sokoto State for the 2026 Hajj exercise has departed Nigeria for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
A total of 485 pilgrims were airlifted on Monday from the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, aboard an Aquila Airlines aircraft bound for the Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah.
The pilgrims on the inaugural flight were drawn from Tambuwal, Tureta, Wamakko, Sabon Birni, Isa, Shagari, and Dange/Shuni Local Government Areas of the state.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, represented by his deputy, Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, assured the pilgrims that the state government had made adequate arrangements for their welfare, safety, and smooth transportation throughout the Hajj exercise.
The governor reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring a successful pilgrimage and urged the pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Sokoto State and Nigeria.
He noted that Sokoto indigenes are widely known for discipline, peaceful coexistence, and good conduct, urging the pilgrims to uphold those virtues during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Governor Aliyu also reminded them that Hajj is a sacred spiritual obligation that should be undertaken with sincerity and devotion, free from any form of misconduct.
He further urged the pilgrims to pray for peace, progress, and stability in Sokoto State and Nigeria, stressing that prayers offered during Hajj are highly rewarding before Almighty Allah.
Also addressing the pilgrims, the 2026 Amirul Hajj and Chairman of the State Hajj Committee, Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, expressed confidence that the exercise would be successful and hitch-free.
Dingyadi, who also serves as the Minister of Labour and Employment, said all relevant authorities had concluded necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth operation.
According to him, five flights have been scheduled to transport the 2,404 intending pilgrims from Sokoto State for this year’s Hajj exercise.
“The airport is fully prepared, and all necessary logistics have been put in place to ensure round-the-clock operations,” he said.
He added that various subcommittees had been constituted to oversee transportation, feeding, accommodation, and the welfare of pilgrims both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The minister also advised the pilgrims to obey the laws of Saudi Arabia and conduct themselves in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
“Sokoto people are known to be peaceful and respectful wherever they find themselves. The pilgrims should therefore uphold the spirit of Islam, unity, and brotherhood throughout the pilgrimage,” he said.
