By Ali Rabiu Ali, Makkah
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has distributed two travelling bags to each pilgrim from the state as part of preparations for their return journey to Nigeria after the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The distribution exercise was carried out under the leadership of the Director General of the board, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, who said the initiative was aimed at easing the movement of pilgrims’ belongings and ensuring a smooth departure process from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to the board, each pilgrim is entitled to a total luggage bags of 46 kilograms, with each of the two bags designed to carry 23 kilograms in line with international flight regulations.
The board also used the occasion to caution pilgrims against purchasing unnecessary items or exceeding the approved luggage weight, warning that excess baggage could create difficulties during departure.
Speaking during the exercise, officials of the board urged pilgrims to carefully arrange their belongings ahead of the return flights, especially as the Hajj rites enter their final stages.
The Arafat exercise, regarded as the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage, is scheduled to take place on May 26, 2026, corresponding to the 9th of Zulhijjah, 1447AH.
One of the pilgrims, Dr. Suleiman Sabo Sara, commended the efforts of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, particularly the Director General, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, for what he described as tireless commitment towards the welfare and comfort of pilgrims.
He said the board had continued to demonstrate dedication in ensuring that pilgrims from the state perform their religious obligations with ease and peace of mind.
Another pilgrim, Ilya Ahmad Danmori, also praised the board for its support and hospitality since their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
According to him, the welfare package provided by the board has greatly reduced the financial burden on pilgrims.
“Since we arrived in Madina and Makkah, I have not spent a penny on food and water because the board has been taking care of us very well,” he said.
Danmori further expressed appreciation for the timely distribution of the travelling bags, noting that it would help pilgrims organise their belongings early before the commencement of return flights to Nigeria.
He described the gesture as another indication of the board’s commitment to the welfare of Jigawa pilgrims throughout the Hajj exercise.
