From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
The Emir of Argungu and Amirul Hajj for the 2025 Hajj, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, has confirmed that all 3,800 Kebbi State pilgrims are fully prepared for airlift to Saudi Arabia.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with the Kebbi Pilgrims Welfare Agency’s top management and security agencies at the agency’s headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, Mera warned pilgrims against violating local and international laws.
“We have heard from our Chairman of Kebbi Pilgrims Welfare Agency, and all preparations have been completed. We have also listened to the security agencies on their readiness, and we are happy that all security agencies are prepared and will deliver on their mandate,” Mera said.
“Four aircraft will begin airlifting concurrently starting from Friday, Insha Allah. Everything related to local and international travel has been arranged, so we are ready to go.”
Addressing the pilgrims, Mera noted that those from Koko, Zuru, and Shanga Local Government Areas will be the first to depart and have been duly notified. He emphasised strict compliance with regulations, stating, “We will have zero tolerance for anything against Nigerian and Saudi Arabian laws.”
Mera highlighted the support of Governor Nasir Idris and his wife, who have provided essential items like slippers and soaps for washing and bathing. “No pilgrim must bring such items into the aircraft. If they bring them to the camp, they must leave them there. These items will be provided free of charge by the Kebbi State Governor and his wife,” he added.
The meeting was attended by the Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruku Yaro Enabo, heads of security agencies, and other stakeholders.