By Ahmad Ibrahim, Gusau
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reduced Nigeria’s Hajj quota, affecting about 450 intending pilgrims from Zamfara State who may not be airlifted for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara State Hajj Commission, Abubakar Aliyu.
He said the Chairman of the Commission, Alhaji Musa Mallaha, made the announcement during a radio programme titled “Ciki da Gaskiya” on Gamji FM Radio and Television.
According to the statement, the reduction in the number of Hajj slots allocated to Nigeria for this year’s exercise has significantly impacted intending pilgrims from Zamfara, leaving over 450 unable to participate.
The Chairman also revealed that the Zamfara State Government is set to commence the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise from the Zamfara International Airport.
As part of efforts to improve pilgrims’ welfare, Mallaha stated that each intending pilgrim will be provided with two large bags and one small bag, an improvement on previous years when only one bag was provided for return luggage.
He further announced the constitution of a committee to provide orientation and awareness on the proper observance of Hajj rites in accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The orientation exercise will cover all 14 local government areas of the state and is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, ahead of the official flag-off.
The committee is chaired by Shaikh Ahmad Kanoma, Chairman of the Ulama Consultative Council.
Meanwhile, Shaikh Malam Sa’idu Maikwano urged those affected by the reduction in Hajj slots to accept it as the will of Allah and an act of destiny.
He cited relevant verses of the Qur’an and Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), emphasizing belief in divine decree.
The Zamfara State Hajj Commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise for all intending pilgrims.