Kaduna State Government on Wednesday officially began the 2025 Hajj airlift, with 311 intending pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia in the first batch.
DAILY POST reports that the ceremony took place at Usman Katsina International Airport, Kaduna, where state officials bid farewell to the pilgrims.
Gov. Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Governor, Hadiza Balarabe, congratulated the pilgrims and urged them to represent Kaduna State and Nigeria positively.
He highlighted the spiritual importance of Hajj and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting a smooth, safe, and dignified pilgrimage.
Malam Salihu Abubakar, Chairman of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, said 4,060 pilgrims from the state would participate in the 2025 Hajj.
He also outlined improvements in Hajj operations, such as the renovation of the transit camp and comprehensive pre-Hajj sensitisation programmes.
The Amirul Hajj and Emir of Kauru, Alhaji Ya’u Usman, advised pilgrims to uphold Islamic values and follow guidance received during their orientation sessions.
He reminded them to act with piety, humility, and discipline while in the Holy Land.
The flag-off event attracted dignitaries, including Sheikh Muhammad Bin Othman of the National Hajj Commission.
Also present were Nazir Abubakar, Chairman of the House Committee on Islamic and Hajj Affairs, and members of the Special Hajj Committee.
