Jigawa Begins 2026 Hajj Operations, Airlifts First 480 Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia

Jigawa State has officially commenced its 2026 Hajj operations, with the first batch of 480 pilgrims departing for Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims, drawn from 25 local government areas, were airlifted on Monday from Dutse aboard an Umza Airlines flight at the Nuhu Muhammadu Sunusi International Airport. The departure ceremony was attended by Governor Umar Namadi and the Emir of Dutse, Hameem Nuhu, who serves as the state’s Amirul Hajj.

Speaking at the event, Governor Namadi urged the pilgrims to represent both Jigawa State and Nigeria positively during their stay in the Holy Land. He also encouraged them to pray for peace, unity, and national development.

The governor assured the pilgrims that adequate arrangements had been made to guarantee their comfort, safety, and overall welfare throughout the pilgrimage.

Earlier, the Director-General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Umar Labbo, confirmed that the group included pilgrims from areas such as Kazaure, Gumel, Hadejia, Dutse, Ringim, and Gwaram, among others. He added that officials, medical personnel, and support staff accompanied the pilgrims to ensure a smooth exercise.

Labbo commended the state government for its support and praised security agencies for conducting thorough and orderly screenings. He noted that agencies including the police, immigration, customs, and NDLEA sensitised pilgrims on travel guidelines and prohibited items.

“We have properly guided our pilgrims to ensure they avoid any issues during their stay in Saudi Arabia,” he said, urging them to remain disciplined and uphold the state’s image.

Some of the pilgrims described the journey as a lifelong dream. A first-time pilgrim from Kazaure said he had waited over a decade for the opportunity and promised to pray for the state and the country. Another pilgrim from Dutse expressed gratitude, saying the orientation and preparations had made her feel confident and ready for the spiritual exercise.

The successful airlift marks the beginning of Jigawa’s Hajj operations for 2026, with additional batches expected to depart in the coming days.

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