By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has concluded arrangements for the 2026 Hajj exercise, with about 1,000 intending pilgrims expected to be airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, officials have said.
The Director-General of the Board, Alhaji Umar Labbo, disclosed this during the closing ceremony of statewide enlightenment programmes organised for intending pilgrims across the 27 local government areas of the state.
Labbo explained that the sensitisation exercises were aimed at equipping pilgrims with adequate knowledge on the spiritual, moral and regulatory requirements of Hajj, noting that compliance with laid-down guidelines remains critical to a successful pilgrimage.
He said the board, in collaboration with Islamic scholars (Ulamas), had taken time to educate pilgrims on new regulations introduced by Saudi Arabian authorities, as well as operational procedures set by the state.
“We have conducted seminars in all the 27 local government areas, including the headquarters of the board, to ensure that every intending pilgrim is properly guided,” he said. “The advice we are giving them is to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations and to apply the knowledge imparted to them during these sessions.”
On the airlift schedule, Labbo said final arrangements were being concluded with relevant stakeholders, including air carriers, adding that a definitive date for the commencement of the exercise would be announced after a crucial meeting.
“We are making necessary arrangements with all stakeholders and, by the grace of Allah, we expect to conclude discussions soon and announce the actual date for the airlift,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Emir of Dutse, Alhaji Muhammad Hameem Nuhu Sunusi, who is also serving as the Amirul Hajj for 2026, called on intending pilgrims to use the opportunity of the pilgrimage to pray for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria and Jigawa State.
He cautioned them against engaging in any acts that could violate Saudi Arabian laws or undermine the sanctity of the Hajj rites.
“The Hajj is a sacred obligation that requires discipline, patience and total obedience to laid-down rules. I urge all pilgrims to conduct themselves in an exemplary manner and avoid any actions that could tarnish the image of the state and the country,” the emir said.
He also commended Governor Malam Umar Namadi for his continued commitment to the welfare of pilgrims, describing the administration’s support as instrumental to the smooth coordination of the exercise. The emir further appreciated the role of Ulamas in guiding intending pilgrims through the rituals and obligations of Hajj.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the state and Chairman of Dutse Local Government, Dr. Sibu Abdullahi, expressed gratitude to God for witnessing the successful completion of the training programmes.
He lauded the state government for appointing the Emir of Dutse as Amirul Hajj, describing the decision as one that reflects confidence in traditional leadership.
Abdullahi also paid tribute to Islamic scholars who have, over the years, dedicated themselves to educating pilgrims despite limited financial incentives.
“For decades, many of these scholars have rendered services with little or no remuneration, yet they remain committed to ensuring that pilgrims understand the rites of Hajj. We sincerely appreciate their sacrifice,” he said.
The ALGON chairman disclosed that local governments have also contributed to supporting intending pilgrims. According to him, about 72 pilgrims from Dutse Local Government received financial assistance of N20,000 each to help them procure essential items for the journey.
He further urged the pilgrims to remember Nigeria, Jigawa State, and their respective communities in prayers, especially in light of ongoing security and socio-political challenges.
“We call on all pilgrims to pray for peace, stability and successful elections in the country. Jigawa has remained relatively peaceful, and we must sustain this through prayers and collective responsibility,” Abdullahi added.
The 2026 Hajj exercise is expected to commence in the coming weeks once final logistics, including flight schedules and travel documentation, are completed.
