The Kwara State Government has officially commenced the 2026 Hajj operations with the departure of its first batch of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
A total of 374 pilgrims, accompanied by officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and the Kwara State delegation, were airlifted from the General Tunde Idi-Agbon International Airport in Ilorin on Wednesday afternoon. The flight, operated by Max Air, departed around 3 p.m. en route to Madinah.
According to a statement issued by Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the state will sponsor 1,714 pilgrims for this year’s pilgrimage.
Representing the governor at the send-off ceremony, Special Adviser Saadu Salaudeen urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and uphold the image of both Kwara State and Nigeria while in Saudi Arabia. He also emphasized strict adherence to the laws and regulations of the host country.
The governor further encouraged the pilgrims to pray for peace and unity in Nigeria, especially in Kwara State, and to follow all directives issued by the Amirul Hajj and other officials.
The Amirul Hajj and Etsu Tsaragi, Abdullahi Aliyu, assured the government that the welfare of the pilgrims would be prioritized throughout the exercise, promising a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abdulkadir Abdulsalam, commended the state government for its support. He confirmed that medical personnel, including doctors and nurses, are part of the delegation to ensure proper healthcare for the pilgrims.
He added that arrangements have also been made to provide familiar local meals for the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, helping them maintain comfort during their stay.
The 2026 Hajj exercise is expected to continue with subsequent batches of pilgrims departing in the coming days.

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