Approximately 3,700 intending pilgrims from Kaduna State have been successfully airlifted to Saudi Arabia in 12 flights, according to the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency.
The airlift operation began last Wednesday and was officially flagged off by the Kaduna State Government during an inaugural flight ceremony. The pilgrims, drawn from various local government areas including Giwa, Ikara, Kauru, Jaba, Makarfi, Kaduna South, Kaura, Lere, Kudan, Sanga, Kubau, Zangon Kataf, and Zaria, were flown directly to the holy city of Madinah.
In Madinah, the pilgrims are spending four days visiting the Prophet’s Mosque and other significant Islamic sites. They will subsequently proceed to Makkah in preparation for the core Hajj rites scheduled for early next month.
Leading the Kaduna delegation is the Emir of Kauru, Alhaji Yau Shehu Usman. A member of the contingent, Malam Kasim Aminu, speaking from Madinah, confirmed that all pilgrims are in good health and high spirits.
“The first group from Kaduna has already arrived in Makkah,” Aminu told Hobnob News, noting the emotional reception that greeted their arrival. “They received a red carpet welcome that brought many to tears.”
So far, 910 Kaduna pilgrims have successfully relocated to Makkah after completing their stay in Madinah, marking a smooth transition as they continue their sacred journey.
