By Nura Ahmed Dakata
The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing luggage screening and handling process for pilgrims returning from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after the 2026 Hajj, describing the exercise as smooth and well-coordinated.
Speaking during the luggage screening exercise at one of the Pilgrims accommodation in Makkah, Chairman of the Luggage Committee and member of the Special Committee for the 2026 Hajj operations, Muhammad Mustafa, said the screening process commenced successfully with pilgrims complying with the guidelines issued by the agency.
According to him, each pilgrim is entitled to two checked bags weighing 23 kilograms each and one small hand luggage of 8 kilograms, in line with airline regulations.
“We advised pilgrims to adhere strictly to the approved luggage limits and avoid carrying unnecessary items on their person while boarding. We are pleased that they have cooperated fully with the directives,” he said.
Mustafa noted that the introduction of the two-bag policy has significantly eased the screening process and reduced the challenges previously associated with excess luggage.
“Previously, overload was a major concern. The new policy has helped pilgrims distribute their belongings more conveniently and has made our work much easier. It is an internationally accepted luggage arrangement and has been widely embraced by the pilgrims,” he explained.
He also commended the policy of transporting pilgrims’ luggage separately ahead of their departure flights, describing it as a practical measure aimed at minimizing cases of missing luggage.
“The major concern of every pilgrim is the safety of their belongings. By conducting the weighing and screening exercise early, we have enough time to process and transport the luggage efficiently, ensuring that it arrives safely in Nigeria,” he said.
The committee chairman further highlighted the importance of attaching identification stickers to each bag and requiring pilgrims to write their names on their luggage.
According to him, the initiative enables the agency to maintain accurate records of all luggage handed over to airlines and provides an additional layer of security against loss or misplacement.
“We keep detailed records of every bag processed and handed over. This makes tracking easier and helps ensure that no luggage goes missing during transportation,” Mustafa stated.
He expressed optimism that the continued implementation of the new luggage handling measures would further improve Hajj return operations and enhance the overall experience of pilgrims from Kaduna State.