Monday, June 8, 2026 - The first batch of 560 pilgrims from Kwara State who participated in the 2026 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia arrived safely in Ilorin on Sunday after completing the spiritual exercise.
The returning pilgrims landed at the Babatunde Idiagbon
International Airport, Ilorin, aboard a Max Air flight at about 12:23 p.m.,
alongside three officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on
Sunday by the press secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare
Board, Mrs Jumoke Jimoh
Speaking shortly after their arrival, the pilgrims expressed
gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting them a successful and spiritually
rewarding pilgrimage.
The Mufashir Agba of Ilorin, Alhaji Uthman Iyanda-Muhammad,
popularly known as Sannu-Sheu, described this year’s Hajj exercise as
exceptional and commended the efforts of the Kwara State Government toward the
welfare of pilgrims.
He said, “This year’s Hajj was exceptional. The provision of
local meals for pilgrims was a commendable initiative that made the exercise
more convenient and memorable for many of us.”
Also speaking, one of the pilgrims, Alhaji AbdulGaniy
Naallah Pako, praised the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board for the
arrangements put in place throughout the pilgrimage.
“The accommodation, feeding, and transportation arrangements
were seamless. We appreciate the Board for ensuring that pilgrims were well
taken care of during the exercise,” Pako stated.
A female pilgrim, Alhaja Saka Rasheedat, also expressed
appreciation to the state government for ensuring a successful and hitch-free
Hajj operation, while family members, friends, and well-wishers who gathered at
the airport celebrated the safe return of their loved ones.
Meanwhile, the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board
said the second batch of pilgrims is expected to arrive on Tuesday, assuring
that all necessary arrangements have been concluded to ensure their smooth
reception and return home.
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