The initial flight carrying intending pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj season has safely touched down in Madina, Saudi Arabia.

Departing from Nigeria, this flight transported prospective pilgrims from Jega and Arewa Local Government Areas of Kebbi State, alongside officials from the State Pilgrims Welfare Board.

In interviews, numerous intending pilgrims expressed their gratitude to Dr. Nasir Idris, the state governor, and Alhaji Faruku Aliyu-Enabo, the Executive Chairman of Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board, for their efforts in ensuring the successful departure of the inaugural flight.

Alhaji Hussaini Argungu, a board member of the state pilgrims board, praised the cabin crew of the Saudi Arabian plane for their exceptional hospitality, providing passengers with food and other necessities to ensure a comfortable journey.

Argungu also lauded Saudi Airliners for their dedication to a seamless journey and expressed appreciation to the Saudi Arabian authorities for orchestrating a warm reception for the Nigerian pilgrims. He mentioned that VIP vehicles were arranged to transport them to various five-star hotels upon their arrival.

Encouraging Nigerian pilgrims, Argungu emphasized the importance of observing the five daily prayers at the Holy Prophet (SAW) mosque to earn additional rewards from Allah (SWT), particularly given their proximity to the mosque.

He added, “Praying in the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) Mosque will yield a reward equivalent to 1,000 prayers in other Mosques worldwide, except Harami and Baitul Muqaddas mosques.”

Alhaji Isa Assalafi, a member of the 2024 Hajj Committee in Kebbi, attributed the successes of the pilgrimage operations to the tireless efforts of the governor, who promptly approved all matters related to Hajj operations.