The Kebbi State Government has inaugurated an 18-member committee to prepare for the inaugural flight of Nigerian pilgrims to the 2024 Hajj in Saudi Arabia. The National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) has designated Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, as the departure point for the pilgrimage, scheduled to begin on May 15, 2024.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Hajj camp in Birnin Kebbi, named “Nasir Idris Hajj Camp.” The Chairman of the Committee, Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafidan, who is also the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), thanked Governor Nasir Idris for the opportunity to serve the state and humanity.
Bala-Tafidan, represented by Alhaji Muhammad Garba-Bena, a member of the committee and representative of Danko-Wasagu East in the State House of Assembly, urged all members to work diligently to ensure the success of the inaugural flight.
“The Federal Government has chosen Kebbi State as a major platform for the Hajj exercise this year. We must work together to uphold the confidence placed in us by the federal authorities,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of publicity, security, and protocol arrangements, noting the possibility of President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, or their representatives, as well as NAHCON officials, attending the departure ceremony.
The Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (PWA), Alhaji Faruq Aliyu-Enabo, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his support in ensuring the success of the inaugural flight.