By Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu Gombe State formally commenced its 2026 Hajj operations in the early hours of Tuesday with the successful airlift of the first batch of intending pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The inaugural flight departed from the Brigadier Zakari Maimalari International Airport, Gombe, marking a pivotal milestone in this year’s pilgrimage exercise and heralding the official commencement of the sacred journey for hundreds of faithful.
A Max Air Boeing 777 aircraft, bearing registration number 5N-BBN, departed at precisely 00:02 GMT, conveying 415 pilgrims alongside 16 crew members.
The departure signifies the beginning of a deeply spiritual undertaking for the Gombe contingent, who are set to perform the Hajj rites in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
The exercise was witnessed by officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCO), the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, aviation authorities, and members of the media, all of whom ensured a seamless and well-coordinated operation.
Addressing the pilgrims before departure, the Chairman of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Rasheed II, admonished them to uphold the highest standards of discipline and personal conduct throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
He underscored the imperative of strict compliance with Saudi Arabian laws and regulations, respect for constituted authorities, and the need to project a dignified and positive image of both Gombe State and Nigeria.
The Emir further urged the pilgrims to remain steadfast in their devotion, focus on the spiritual essence of the Hajj, refrain from any form of misconduct, and adhere diligently to the guidance of officials and group leaders.
According to him, the pilgrimage transcends mere ritual observance, serving also as a reflection of the moral values, character, and collective identity of the people they represent.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, assured that comprehensive arrangements had been meticulously put in place to guarantee the safety, comfort, and overall welfare of the pilgrims throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
He noted that the board had engaged in extensive collaboration with relevant stakeholders to ensure seamless accommodation, efficient transportation, and the provision of adequate medical services.
Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan also conveyed profound appreciation to the Governor of Gombe State for his unwavering support and steadfast commitment to the success of the Hajj operations.
He disclosed that the Governor had graciously approved a Sallah gift of 200 Saudi Riyals for each pilgrim to assist them during their stay in the Kingdom.
He further revealed that, in keeping with established tradition, the state government would provide high-quality feeding arrangements for all pilgrims during their stay in Arafat.
The Executive Secretary reassured families at home that robust measures had been instituted to safeguard the well-being and security of their loved ones throughout the pilgrimage period.
Meanwhile, the Airport Director, Engr. Sulaiman D. Musa, and the Airport Manager, Mr Suleiman Marafa, were actively present and maintained close supervision of the entire operation from commencement to completion.
Their leadership and coordination proved instrumental in ensuring that the departure process was orderly, efficient, and entirely hitch-free.
The airport management commended the dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of all personnel, including those engaged on ad-hoc duties, whose collective efforts contributed significantly to the success of the inaugural Hajj flight.
The smooth and punctual takeoff has been widely regarded as a testament to meticulous planning, effective inter-agency collaboration, and the shared commitment of all stakeholders involved.
The second and final flight is scheduled for later on Tuesday, with authorities expressing strong confidence that the 2026 Hajj operations from Gombe State will continue to proceed without complications.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that all pilgrims are provided with a safe, well-organised, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience.