By Ali Rabiu Ali, Makkah
The Emir of Dutse and Amirul Hajj for Jigawa State in the 2026 Hajj exercise, Alhaji Muhammad Hameem Nuhu Sunusi, has expressed delight over the joyful mood and satisfaction displayed by pilgrims from the state currently performing Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The monarch made this known during an inspection visit to the accommodation facilities secured for Jigawa pilgrims by the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board near the Holy Mosque in Makkah on Friday night, May 16, 2026.
Speaking during the visit, the Emir said he was highly impressed to see smiles and happiness on the faces of the pilgrims, noting that the welfare and comfort of pilgrims remain a sacred responsibility entrusted to leaders and officials overseeing the Hajj operation.
According to him, ensuring the wellbeing of the pilgrims is a task that must be carried out with sincerity and commitment.
He commended the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, particularly its Director General, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, for working tirelessly to ensure that all arrangements for the pilgrims were properly coordinated and executed.
Jigawa Pilgrims performs Umrah in Makkah as Board Provides Accommodation, Feeding
The Emir also offered prayers and words of appreciation to Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State for his continued support and commitment towards improving the welfare, enlightenment and comfort of pilgrims from the state.
He stated that the governor had demonstrated exceptional leadership by approving the participation of government officials, Islamic scholars and journalists in the Hajj operation to ensure effective supervision, proper guidance and smooth coordination throughout the pilgrimage period.
The traditional ruler urged the pilgrims to continue praying for lasting peace, security and prosperity in Jigawa State and Nigeria as a whole.
He also called on citizens of the state to continue praying for Governor Umar Namadi for the progress and development initiatives being implemented across Jigawa.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, appreciated the Emir for personally visiting the pilgrims to assess their condition and welfare.
He described the Emir’s action as a sign of responsible and compassionate leadership aimed at ensuring that pilgrims remain comfortable and healthy throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Labbo further disclosed that Saudi Arabian authorities had commended Jigawa pilgrims for their discipline, good conduct and peaceful behaviour, especially around the Haram and at their accommodation centres.
According to him, officials of the Saudi Hajj authorities confirmed that pilgrims from Jigawa State have maintained a strong reputation for obedience to rules and respect for constituted authorities.
The board chairman reassured pilgrims that their Hajj funds were being judiciously utilized and promised that any excess payment, no matter how small, would be refunded to the pilgrims accordingly.
He explained that the amount paid by pilgrims alone could not fully cover the standard of hotels secured for them, adding that the board had supplemented additional funds to ensure that pilgrims enjoyed better accommodation and services while in Saudi Arabia.
Labbo therefore praised the pilgrims for their maturity, patience and law-abiding attitude, urging them to sustain the good image of Jigawa State until the completion of the pilgrimage exercise and their safe return home.
He equally called on the pilgrims to continue offering special prayers for Governor Umar Namadi in recognition of the developmental strides and support being provided to ensure a successful Hajj operation for Jigawa pilgrims.
