Last batch of 248 pilgrims from Kwara State who participated in this year’s Hajj exercise have arrived safely in ilorin after successfully completing the religious exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The pilgrims landed at the General Babatunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, aboard a Max Air flight at 1:36pm and accompanied by officials of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Speaking with journalists shortly after their arrival, the Amirul-Hajj and Etsu Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa, expressed gratitude to Allah for a successful Hajj operation, describing this year’s exercise as one of the best-organized Hajj operations in recent times.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Professor Mashood Mahmud-Jimba, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support and commitment towards ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise for pilgrims from the state.
Professor Mahmud-Jimba appreciated the Saudi Arabian authorities for their support throughout the pilgrimage.
He appealed for improved measures to mitigate the effects of the hot weather, including the provision of additional cold-water spraying facilities at key locations in the holy cities.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, expressed delight that all the pilgrims returned safely.
Alhaji Abdulkadir thanked them for their exemplary conduct throughout the pilgrimage and for being worthy ambassadors of Kwara State and Nigeria.
The arrival of the last batch marks the end and successful completion of the 2026 Hajj airlift operation for Kwara State pilgrims.