The Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has officially flagged off the medical screening exercise for intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj operations, as part of measures to ensure that all pilgrims from the state are medically fit to perform the physically demanding religious rites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, said the medical screening is a compulsory requirement mandated by the Saudi Arabian authorities, stressing that compliance is mandatory for all intending pilgrims without exception.
According to him, the policy forms part of broader international health and safety measures aimed at safeguarding the lives of pilgrims and ensuring the smooth conduct of the Hajj exercise. He noted that Hajj activities require considerable physical strength and endurance, making medical fitness a critical requirement.
Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan stated that any intending pilgrim diagnosed with serious health challenges would not be allowed to participate in the 2026 Hajj. He explained that the decision, though difficult, is necessary to prevent medical emergencies and protect the well-being of pilgrims.
He further disclosed that pregnant women will not be permitted to perform the 2026 Hajj, citing health risks to both the mother and the unborn child due to the rigorous nature of the Hajj rites and the harsh climatic conditions in Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Secretary explained that the medical screening would be conducted in phases to ensure thoroughness and transparency. While the first phase is currently underway, he said a second round of screening would take place after Ramadan.
He noted that the second screening is particularly important to confirm that no pregnant woman proceeds for the pilgrimage, thereby preventing last-minute health complications and ensuring full compliance with Saudi Arabian Hajj regulations.
Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate fully with medical personnel and provide accurate and honest health information, warning that concealment of medical conditions could result in disqualification from the Hajj exercise.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Gombe State Government and the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to the safety, welfare, and well-being of all pilgrims, assuring that the Board is determined to conduct a hitch-free and successful 2026 Hajj operation.
In his remarks, the Chief Medical Director of the Specialist Hospital, Gombe, Dr Sambo Dawa, assured pilgrims that all necessary arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth and effective screening exercise.
Dr Dawa stated that qualified medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, had been deployed to conduct the screening, ensuring that every pilgrim is thoroughly examined.
He added that modern medical equipment and facilities had been provided to support accurate diagnosis and assessment, stressing the hospital’s commitment to maintaining high medical standards throughout the exercise.
The Chief Medical Director assured pilgrims that the screening would be conducted with fairness, confidentiality, and respect for human dignity, emphasising that the objective is not to deny anyone the opportunity to perform Hajj but to ensure safety and preparedness.
He encouraged pilgrims to see the screening as a preventive and protective measure, noting that early detection of health issues could enable timely treatment and improve chances of participation in future pilgrimages.
Dr Dawa also highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare, urging pilgrims to adhere strictly to medical advice and recommendations provided during the screening process.
Some intending pilgrims who spoke during the exercise commended the Board and the state government for prioritising their health and safety, describing the initiative as timely and necessary.
Others called for continuous health education and sensitisation for pilgrims, particularly on managing chronic illnesses and maintaining physical fitness ahead of the journey.
Overall, the commencement of the medical screening exercise marks a critical milestone in preparations for the 2026 Hajj. With strict adherence to health guidelines, professional medical support, and strong institutional commitment, Gombe State aims to ensure a safe, successful, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage for all qualified pilgrims.