By: John Bassey.
The Kebbi State Amirul Hajj and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, has assured that all preparations have been finalized for the airlift of intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj exercise.
Speaking during the inaugural meeting between the government delegation and officials of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency on Monday in Birnin Kebbi, the Emir disclosed that the government has already secured the passports and visas of the pilgrims in readiness for their departure.
A total of 3,800 intending pilgrims from the state have fully paid their Hajj fares.
Alhaji Mera announced that the first batch of pilgrims is scheduled to depart from the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, on May 9, 2025, with subsequent flights following progressively.
“All arrangements have been concluded for the seamless evacuation of pilgrims without interruption,” he stated.
The Emir further revealed that pilgrims will receive their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash (Saudi Riyals) under the new system introduced this year. This measure aims to prevent sharp practices and protect pilgrims from being shortchanged during currency exchanges both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
He emphasized that the comfort of pilgrims remains a top priority for the government, assuring that adequate accommodation has been secured for them in the Holy Land.
“We thank Governor Nasir Idris for his confidence in us and for providing the opportunity to serve the people,” Alhaji Mera said.
“As Amirul Hajj, I reaffirm our commitment to partnering with the Pilgrims Agency to ensure the smooth conduct of the Hajj operation both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.”
The Emir also advised members of the government delegation and officials of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency to work together in unity and with the fear of God, to protect the rights and privileges of pilgrims in line with Governor Idris’s vision of a successful Hajj exercise.
Welcoming the Amirul Hajj and his team, the Executive Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruk Aliyu Yaro, pledged full cooperation with the government delegation to deliver the most successful Hajj exercise in the state’s history.
He described the Emir as his mentor and confidant and expressed gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris for appointing capable and experienced personalities to the Hajj delegation.
“Your Royal Highness has a track record of excellence in previous Hajj operations. The Governor is fully aware of your credentials, which is why you were entrusted again with this important responsibility,” Faruk stated.
He further confirmed that all necessary arrangements, including accommodation, transportation, and feeding, have been secured for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The airline engaged for last year’s Hajj, Flynas, has also been contracted for the 2025 Hajj airlift. Ten flights are scheduled to begin on May 9, 2025, with each trip airlifting approximately 420 pilgrims directly from Birnin Kebbi to Madinah until all 3,800 pilgrims are transported.
Faruk also noted that the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport has been fully equipped to support the Hajj operations, including the establishment of an operational aircraft refueling facility since the 2024 Hajj exercise, thanks to the efforts of Governor Nasir Idris.
Earlier on Monday, the Amirul Hajj and other members of the government delegation received vaccinations at the Hajj Camp in Birnin Kebbi, signaling the commencement of the vaccination exercise for all intending pilgrims. Each vaccine recipient was issued a “Yellow Card,” in compliance with domestic and international travel regulations.
