By John Bassey, Kebbi
Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, has pledged to further improve the welfare of pilgrims from the state in future Hajj operations.
The governor made the pledge on Sunday in Birnin Kebbi while receiving the 2026 Kebbi State Hajj pilgrims, who paid him a thank-you visit following their return from the Holy Land, according to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Comrade Ahmed Idris.
Governor Idris commended the pilgrims for the visit, describing it as a worthy gesture and stressing the importance of appreciating leaders who perform their responsibilities diligently.
He, however, expressed concern over what he described as criticism from some individuals regarding his administration’s support for the pilgrims.
“There are people who had the opportunity to do what we are doing today but failed to do so. Now they are unhappy with our efforts because they misused the opportunities they had.
“If you have misused your opportunity, you should not criticize those who are making effective use of theirs,” the governor said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting Islam and the welfare of Muslim faithful, Governor Idris said his government would continue to do everything within its capacity to promote the religion.
He also disclosed plans to convene another meeting with the returning pilgrims for further discussions on ways to improve future Hajj operations.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruku Yaro Musa Enabo, said the visit was organised to express appreciation to the governor for his support before and during the pilgrimage.
“We considered it necessary to come together to thank Your Excellency for all you did for the pilgrims in the Holy Land,” he said.
He added that the 2026 pilgrims remained steadfast in offering prayers for Governor Idris and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu throughout the pilgrimage.
Enabo also thanked God for the safe return of all Kebbi State pilgrims from the 2026 Hajj exercise.
