By Usman Usman Garba
The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has warned pilgrims to shun all forms of vice at the Holy Land and to act as good ambassadors of Kano State.
He gave the charge while addressing 560 intending pilgrims scheduled to be airlifted to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
This was contained in a press statement issued on Saturday by Mustapha Muhammad, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.
The Governor urged the pilgrims to fear God and uphold exemplary conduct throughout their stay, noting that they represent Kano State in all their actions.
“We believe our pilgrims are wonderful people and will not engage in any shameful act,” the Governor said.
He also assured that the state government had made adequate arrangements, including the provision of a medical team and healthcare facilities to attend to any pilgrim who may fall ill in the Holy Land.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf added that his administration had fulfilled all necessary responsibilities required for the successful conduct of the Hajj exercise.
“My Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, was with you and briefed you on my behalf. We have done a lot for you, especially in the area of healthcare,” he stated.
The Governor further disclosed that his administration has appointed the Emir of Gaya, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, while the Emir of Karaye, Alhaji Muhammad Maharaz, will serve as his deputy.
Earlier, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, commended the government for its support in ensuring a smooth and hitch-free Hajj operation.
He informed the Governor that all 560 pilgrims for the first flight had been provided with essential toiletries, including soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes, as part of their preparations.
The Governor, alongside his Deputy, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Amirul Hajj, and other top government officials, bade the pilgrims farewell and prayed for their safe arrival and a successful Hajj exercise.
