By: John Bassey.
As the 2025 Hajj exercise gathers momentum, Kebbi State pilgrims already airlifted to the Holy land have expressed deep appreciation for the decent accommodation arranged by the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency in Makkah.
The pilgrims, who arrived aboard the third and fourth flights, commended Gov. Nasir Idris for his unwavering commitment to their comfort and welfare.
Safiya Bashir, a female pilgrim from Kalgo Local Government Area, expressed her satisfaction with the standard of accommodation, emphasizing the cleanliness and comfort of the facilities.
“To be sincere, Kebbi State Government has done well. The rooms and toilets are clean and fully air-conditioned.
“I have nothing to say but to commend Kauran Gwandu for ensuring our comfort,” she said.
Similarly, Ummu Mustapha Hassan, from Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area, noted that the pilgrims from Kebbi State have no complaints, praising both the Governor and the Pilgrims Welfare Agency for their efforts.
“The Governor has fulfilled his obligations.
“The committee in charge of accommodation is doing a great job. Unlike some other states, our accommodations are close to the Holy Kaabah, so we don’t have to walk long distances,” she added.
Another pilgrim, Umaru Malam Tankari Gwandu, also praised the excellent arrangements.
“We are satisfied with the accommodation. It is spacious, clean, and very close to the Haram Mosque, making it easier to observe the five daily prayers and perform other religious rites.
“We shall continue praying fervently for Governor Nasir Idris for his success and protection from Allah,” he said.
The Chairman of the Accommodation Committee, Alhaji Atiku B.D. Zauro, disclosed that over 1,600 pilgrims have been received and accommodated so far from the fifth batch of flights.
According to him, Kebbi State is leading among Nigerian states in securing accommodations close to the Haram Mosque in Makkah, thanks to the commitment of Gov. Idris and the Executive Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruku Musa Yaro (Enabo).
“Our committee works round the clock to ensure that no pilgrim sleeps without decent accommodation. We also issue ID cards or tags to help identify any lost pilgrims,” he said.
He described these initiatives as innovative and a marked improvement over the past practices.
He, however, noted challenges with some pilgrims who are unable to read the information on the tags.
“But with the help of their colleagues and Hajj guides, these challenges are usually resolved,” he added.
It will be recalled that Gov. Nasir Idris has expended significant human and financial resources to enhance the welfare of pilgrims, including free feeding, accommodation, additional Ihram clothing for male and female pilgrims, payment for Hadya (sacrificial animals), and provision of travel allowances.
The Governor also inaugurated the 2025 Hajj Committee, headed by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, while several sub-committees to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj exercise were set up by the Executive Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency , Alhaji Faruk Musa Yaro, Enabo.
Meanwhile, Kebbi State pilgrims have commenced the performance of Umrah (lesser Hajj) ahead of the main 2025 Hajj rites in Makkah.
Prior to arriving in Makkah, they had also visited several holy sites in Madinah.