The first flight of 485 intending pilgrims from Sokoto State for the 2026 Hajj exercise departed from the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport, Sokoto, on Monday, May 11.
The Aquila Airlines aircraft headed directly to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah.
The pilgrims on the inaugural flight are from Tambuwal, Tureta, Wamakko, Sabon Birni, Isa, Shagari, and Dange/Shuni Local Government Areas.
Bidding farewell to the pilgrims, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, assured them that the state government had made all necessary arrangements for their welfare and security to and from Nigeria.
Governor Aliyu said the state government would leave no stone unturned in ensuring a successful Hajj exercise.
He urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state and Nigeria, noting that the Sokoto people are known for good conduct, peacefulness, discipline, and law-abiding behaviour anywhere in the world.
He admonished them to uphold these qualities, reminding them that Hajj is a deeply spiritual journey that should not be marred by misconduct.
The governor also urged them to offer fervent prayers for themselves, the state, and the nation, noting that prayers during Hajj are readily answered by Almighty Allah.
Also addressing the pilgrims, the 2026 Amirul Hajj and Chairman of the State’s Hajj Committee, Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, Katukan Sokoto, expressed hope that the exercise would be hitch-free.
Dingyadi, who is also the Minister of Labour and Employment, said he was satisfied with the preparations so far and that all authorities were on alert to ensure a smooth exercise.
“Five flights will be conducted for the 2,404 intending pilgrims from Sokoto State for this year’s Hajj. All necessary arrangements have been made by the state government to ensure a successful Hajj,” he said.
“The airport is fully prepared, and everything has been set in motion to ensure 24-hour operations, day and night.
“We have set up various subcommittees to diligently discharge our duties and ensure the welfare, smooth transportation, feeding, accommodation, and other essential services both at home and in Saudi Arabia.
The minister again urged the pilgrims to respect the laws of Saudi Arabia and conduct themselves in accordance with Islamic Shari’a.
“Sokoto people are always known to be peaceful and respectful anywhere they find themselves.
“The intending pilgrims should therefore conduct themselves in the spirit of Islam and brotherhood,” he said.
