By Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu The Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has intensified efforts to improve the welfare and comfort of pilgrims from Gombe State participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following a strategic meeting held in Makkah.
The meeting brought together board officials and Hajj guides to review welfare services provided to the pilgrims, particularly in the areas of feeding and accommodation.
Speaking after the meeting, the Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji Sa’adu, said the gathering was convened to assess the ongoing Hajj operations and identify ways of improving services for pilgrims from the state.
He stated that the board remains committed to ensuring that pilgrims fulfil their religious obligations in a conducive, well-coordinated environment.
According to him, discussions focused on improving feeding arrangements and maintaining suitable accommodation facilities for pilgrims in Makkah, Arafat, and Mina.
Alhaji Sa’adu noted that the welfare of pilgrims remains a major priority of the board, adding that officials are working continuously to address operational challenges.
He disclosed that immediately after the meeting, a delegation from the board visited food vendors responsible for preparing meals for the pilgrims.
The delegation, led by the Secretary of the board alongside two board members and the Chairman of Local Government Hajj Officers, who also serves as the Funakaye Local Government Hajj Officer, engaged the vendors on the need to improve the quality and taste of meals served to pilgrims.
He explained that the board advised the vendors to prepare meals that suit the dietary preferences of pilgrims from Gombe State to ensure their satisfaction.
The Executive Secretary said the intervention followed observations and feedback received from some pilgrims concerning feeding arrangements.
He assured that the board would continue to monitor service providers closely to guarantee improved standards throughout the pilgrimage exercise.
Alhaji Sa’adu also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his support toward the success of the 2026 Hajj operations.
He commended the governor for providing the necessary support that has contributed to the smooth coordination of activities involving Gombe pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Secretary appealed to pilgrims to remain patient, disciplined, and prayerful during their stay in Makkah and throughout the spiritual rites in Arafat and Mina.
He urged them to cooperate with officials and Hajj guides assigned to oversee their welfare and movement during the exercise.
“We will continue to do everything within our capacity to ensure that no pilgrim suffers unnecessary hardship during this sacred journey,” he assured.