Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has assured pilgrims from the state currently performing the 2026 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to guarantee their safe and seamless return to Nigeria.
The governor gave the assurance while addressing Kano pilgrims in Makkah, where he commended them for their patience, discipline and exemplary conduct throughout the Hajj exercise.
He expressed satisfaction with the orderly manner in which they carried themselves and encouraged them to remain steadfast in prayers as they prepare for their journey home.
Governor Yusuf also urged the pilgrims to continue offering prayers for lasting peace, unity and prosperity in Kano State and Nigeria, stressing that the country requires divine guidance to overcome its social, economic and security challenges.
Speaking during the gathering, the Amirul Hajj of Kano State, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, informed the governor that all Kano pilgrims are in good condition and have successfully completed their Hajj obligations without any major challenges. He noted that the only concern among the pilgrims at this stage is the date of their return to Nigeria, as they eagerly await the commencement of the airlift operation.
Also speaking, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, announced that the official return airlift of Kano pilgrims is scheduled to commence on June 24.
He, however, disclosed that efforts are underway to begin the evacuation earlier if all logistical arrangements are concluded ahead of schedule.
Matawalle explained that the board has finalized most of the preparations for the return exercise and expressed confidence that, once flights begin, all Kano pilgrims will be transported back to Nigeria within approximately three days. He added that flight schedules and operational plans have been carefully coordinated to ensure a smooth, timely and comfortable journey for the returning pilgrims.
The Director General further commended officials, coordinators and welfare personnel deployed across the 44 local government areas of Kano State for their dedication and commitment to the successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Yusuf for his unwavering support for the welfare of the pilgrims and prayed that Allah would accept their acts of worship and grant them a safe return home.
The planned return airlift marks the final phase of the 2026 Hajj exercise for Kano pilgrims, bringing weeks of spiritual devotion and religious activities in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to a successful conclusion.