The Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, and the Emir of Zazzau, Amb. Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli have urged intending pilgrims from Kaduna State to pray for peace, unity and security in Nigeria as they depart for the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia.
They gave the charge during the flag-off of the inaugural flight for Kaduna pilgrims held at the Hajj Transit Camp in Kaduna.
Representing the governor at the event, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State, Hadiza Balarabe, said the state government had taken necessary measures to ensure a smooth and comfortable Hajj operation for pilgrims.
She disclosed that the government had begun renovating facilities at the Hajj camp to improve pilgrims’ welfare.
“This is why the government is renovating the Hajj camp. The camp now has large halls, ventilators, restrooms, clinics and new shops for people to buy what they need,” she said.
The deputy governor added that the state government had also donated buses to ease transportation challenges for pilgrims moving between the camp and the airport.
“The government has provided buses for the Hajj camp, and more buses will still be provided to convey pilgrims to and from the airport,” she stated.
Balarabe commended the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency and other stakeholders for working together to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
“I want to thank the Hajj authorities and all stakeholders for teaming up to ensure standard procedures throughout the Hajj operation,” she said.
She urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly while in Saudi Arabia and to avoid actions that could tarnish the image of Kaduna State and Nigeria.
“As you embark on this journey, make use of everything you have been taught. Respect the authorities, obey the laws of Saudi Arabia and do not indulge in anything that will spoil the reputation of our country,” she advised.
The deputy governor further conveyed Governor Uba Sani’s message to the pilgrims, urging them to remember Kaduna State and Nigeria in prayers.
“The governor asked me to extend his congratulations to all of you for having the opportunity to perform Hajj, which is one of the pillars of Islam. He urged you to pray for Kaduna State and Nigeria so that we may continue to enjoy peace, unity and Allah’s blessings,” she added.
In his remarks, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, cautioned pilgrims against travelling with prohibited items and warned them to be vigilant at airports.
He specifically warned against carrying substances banned by Saudi authorities or assisting unknown persons with luggage during the journey.
“Do not go with items not approved by the authorities and never collect luggage from people you do not know at the airport,” the emir warned.
The traditional ruler also urged the pilgrims to use the spiritual exercise to pray for Nigeria, noting that the country was passing through difficult times.
“We need your prayers because the country is going through challenges. Pray for peace, stability and progress in Nigeria,” he said.
Earlier, the chairman of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Abubakar Salihu, commended the Kaduna State Government for upgrading facilities at the Hajj camp.
“We thank the Kaduna State government for the support so far. The roads, new hostels and other facilities provided are aimed at making Kaduna Hajj operations one of the best in the country,” he said.
Salihu explained that the agency had intensified efforts to ensure the comfort, safety and welfare of pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
“It is our responsibility to take proper care of the pilgrims. We educate them on health, security and other civic responsibilities, while their feeding and welfare are also being taken care of,” he added.
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