Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Tuesday flagged off the inaugural flight of pilgrims from the state for the 2024 Hajj exercise, reaffirming the government’s commitment to their safety and well-being throughout the holy pilgrimage.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, Governor Yusuf urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Kano State and to offer prayers for the unity, peace, and progress of the state and Nigeria at large.
Speaking at the Aminu Kano International Airport during the send-off ceremony, the governor emphasized that all logistical and welfare arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience for the pilgrims.
Also addressing the pilgrims, the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, advised them to remain orderly, disciplined, and focused on the spiritual objectives of the Hajj. He offered prayers for their safe journey to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Lamin Rabi’u Danbappa, disclosed that the first flight comprises 560 pilgrims drawn from 11 local government areas, along with 15 government officials and 10 national officials. The pilgrims were airlifted by Max Air to the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madina at approximately 12:11 PM.
Breakdown of the first batch of pilgrims is as follows:
Ajingi LGA – 15 pilgrims (10 males, 5 females)
Tofa LGA – 17 pilgrims (12 males, 5 females)
Tudun Wada LGA – 115 pilgrims (84 males, 31 females)
Doguwa LGA – 94 pilgrims (73 males, 21 females)
Bebeji LGA – 82 pilgrims (67 males, 15 females)
Garin Malam LGA – 47 pilgrims (33 males, 14 females)
Gaya LGA – 14 pilgrims (10 males, 4 females)
Madobi LGA – 36 pilgrims (21 males, 15 females)
Kabo LGA – 18 pilgrims (13 males, 5 females)
Wudil LGA – 36 pilgrims (30 males, 6 females)
Rimin Gado LGA – 33 pilgrims
Danbappa noted that comprehensive welfare measures have been taken by the state government to ensure the comfort, safety, and proper guidance of the pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alhaji Yusif Lawan, members of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, state commissioners, and special advisers.