Hajj: 374 Kwara pilgrims depart for Saudi Arabia

Kwara State has officially begun its Hajj pilgrimage for 2026, with the first contingent of 374 intending pilgrims departing from the General Tunde Idi-Agbon International Airport in Ilorin. This marks the beginning of a spiritual journey for the 1,714 residents of Kwara who are set to perform the sacred rites in Saudi Arabia.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented at the flag-off ceremony, implored the pilgrims to uphold the dignity of Kwara State and Nigeria by conducting themselves with decorum and adhering strictly to the laws and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This emphasis on responsible representation is crucial, as pilgrims often serve as unofficial ambassadors, shaping perceptions of their home country abroad.

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Our message to pilgrims from Kwara State this year centres on the need for them to behave as good representatives and ambassadors of Kwara State in particular and Nigeria in general and to make sure they comply with all the laws and regulations of the host country, Saudi Arabia.

The State Amirul Hajj, Abdullahi Aliyu, pledged to prioritize the welfare of the pilgrims, assuring them of dedicated care throughout their spiritual sojourn. The Kwara State Pilgrims Welfare Board, with the governor's full support, has made arrangements for medical personnel and officials to accompany the pilgrims, ensuring their comfort and safety as they embark on this significant religious obligation. The pilgrims are headed directly to Madinah, commencing their journey in the holy city.

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I want to reiterate that when His Excellency announced my appointment as the leader of the delegation from the state, being Amirul Hajj, I made a pledge before him that we are not going to let him down and inshallah we are going to perform the roles that we are assigned to perform. We will make sure that Kwara pilgrims have the best this year and inshallah we are going to take care of their well-being over there.