The Sokoto State Government on Monday airlifted the first batch of 484 pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise to Saudi Arabia.
The pilgrims departed aboard the inaugural flight at about 6:14 a.m. from the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, following a brief departure ceremony.
The contingent was drawn from Wamakko, Tambuwal, Tureta, Shagari, Sabon Birni, Isa, and Dange/Shuni Local Government Areas of the state.
Leading the delegation was the state Amirul Hajj and Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Idris Mohammad Gobir, urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and obey the rules guiding the Hajj exercise.
He advised them to be good ambassadors of Sokoto State and Nigeria throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
Gobir also assured the pilgrims of the state government’s commitment to their welfare, safety, and comfort during the pilgrimage.
In his remarks, Dingyadi said arrangements had been completed for accommodation, feeding, transportation, and healthcare services for the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
According to him, officials and support personnel had already been deployed to ensure a smooth Hajj operation.
Islamic clerics at the event offered prayers for the safety and successful pilgrimage of the travellers.
The departure marks the commencement of the 2026 Hajj exercise for pilgrims from Sokoto State.
