Ghanaian Mecca pilgrims back home after 2026 Hajj

The first contingent of 423 Ghanaian pilgrims has successfully returned to Tamale after participating in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims, largely from Bawku and its neighboring communities, arrived on Friday night and were warmly welcomed by officials from the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG), security personnel, family, and friends.

This arrival marks the commencement of the return phase for Ghana's Hajj operations this year. Additional flights are scheduled to bring back the remaining Ghanaian pilgrims in the upcoming days. The successful completion of the pilgrimage and the safe return of the first batch have been met with gratitude and celebration.

Mohammed Amin Lamptey, Communications Director of PAOG, confirmed that comprehensive logistical and transportation plans are in place to ensure the pilgrims' safe journey from Tamale to their respective homes. He stated that PAOG, in collaboration with the Ghanaian government, security agencies, Hajj agents, and transport operators, has deployed buses and coordinated security escorts for smooth transit.

Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, Chairman of PAOG, expressed deep gratitude to Allah, the President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, and all stakeholders involved in facilitating the transportation arrangements. He conveyed his hopes for sustained peace, unity, and development in Bawku, envisioning a "total transformation and development of Bawku, anchored on peace, love, and harmony."

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I am prayerfully looking forward to seeing a total transformation and development of Bawku, anchored on peace, love, and harmony.