By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has stepped up preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise, announcing that the airlift of intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia will commence on May 4.
This was disclosed at a high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened by the board’s Director-General, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, to fine-tune arrangements ahead of the annual pilgrimage.
The meeting drew key officials from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), including the Zonal Coordinator overseeing Kano, Jigawa and Katsina states, Alhaji Muhammad Umar Kalgo, alongside representatives of security agencies, aviation authorities, and service providers.
Addressing participants, Labbo revealed that the state has completed about 70 per cent of its preparations, noting that essential items such as pilgrims’ bags and other logistics have already been distributed.
He added that intending pilgrims are now awaiting movement into the Hajj camp as final arrangements are being put in place.
The director-general commended Governor Umar Namadi for his unwavering support, stating that Jigawa’s Hajj operational model has attracted recognition from other states as well as NAHCON.
Stakeholders at the meeting including officials from Umza Airline, Dutse International Airport, the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration, NDLEA, Federal Road Safety Corps, Civil Defence, DSS, Police, NAFDAC, as well as hoteliers and media organisations offered recommendations aimed at ensuring a hitch-free operation.
In his remarks, NAHCON Zonal Coordinator, Alhaji Muhammad Umar Kalgo, praised Jigawa State for its proactive approach and adherence to timelines, assuring that the commission would conduct final inspections before the commencement of the airlift.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Umza Airline confirmed that the inaugural flight will depart on May 4 at 8:30 p.m., marking the beginning of the state’s airlift operations.
Labbo expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions and reiterated the board’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise.
He particularly thanked Governor Namadi for what he described as “100 per cent support,” noting that it remains crucial to the success of the 2026 pilgrimage.
