Sokoto Begins 2026 Hajj Operations, Airlifts First Batch of Pilgrims to Madinah
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
Sokoto State on Monday commenced the airlift of its intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise, with the first batch of 485 pilgrims departing for Madinah from Sultan Abubakar III International Airport.
The pilgrims were transported aboard an Aquila Airlines flight to the Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport.
The first batch comprised pilgrims from Tambuwal, Tureta, Wamakko, Sabon Birni, Isa, Shagari, and Dange/Shuni Local Government Areas.
Addressing the pilgrims before departure, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, represented by Deputy Governor Idris Muhammad Gobir, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and successful pilgrimage.
He stated that adequate arrangements had been made to guarantee the safety, comfort, and welfare of the pilgrims throughout the exercise.
The governor urged the intending pilgrims to reflect the values Sokoto people are known for, including discipline, peaceful conduct, and obedience to the law.
He also reminded them that Hajj is a sacred act of worship that requires patience, humility, and total devotion to Allah, while encouraging them to pray for lasting peace and development in Nigeria.
In his remarks, the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage and Chairman of the State Hajj Committee, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, expressed confidence in the level of preparations put in place for the exercise.
Dingyadi disclosed that a total of five flights had been scheduled to transport 2,404 pilgrims from Sokoto State to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.
According to him, the airport and all operational teams had been fully mobilised to ensure uninterrupted activities throughout the airlift period.
He noted that various committees had been constituted to oversee logistics, accommodation, feeding, transportation, and the overall welfare of pilgrims both in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia.
The minister further advised the pilgrims to abide by the laws of Saudi Arabia and uphold the principles of Islam throughout their stay in the holy land.
