The first batch of Kano State pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise has successfully departed from King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, en route to Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
According to the Public Relations Officer of the Board Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, Speaking before the departure, the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 Hajj operation and Emir of Gaya, His Royal Highness Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, urged the returning pilgrims to uphold and practice the lessons, values, and spiritual benefits they acquired during their stay in the Holy Land.
The Amirul Hajj also offered prayers for the pilgrims, wishing them a safe and successful journey back home.
In his remarks, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, assured pilgrims and their families that the Board remains committed to ensuring the smooth and timely return of all Kano pilgrims without unnecessary delays.
He further appealed to the remaining pilgrims awaiting their return flights to remain patient, assuring them that adequate arrangements have been made for their Airlift back to Kano.
The Director General noted that the successful commencement of the return airlift reflects the commitment of the present administration to facilitating the early and efficient return of pilgrims ahead of the initially scheduled period.
Details of the first return flights are as follows:
– UMZA Air Flight No. 3582 departed Jeddah at exactly 1:11 a.m., carrying 280 pilgrims.
– Max Air Flight No. 2006 departed at exactly 1:13 a.m., carrying 415 pilgrims.
The pilgrims on board the two flights are from Gwale, Dala, Fagge, and Ungogo Local Government Areas of Kano State.
The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board remains committed to ensuring the safe and successful return of all pilgrims to their respective communities.