The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced a series of major achievements recorded during the 2026 Hajj operations, describing the exercise as one of the most successful in the Board’s history.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Director General of the Board, Alhaji Ibrahim Abubakar Matawalle, attributed the success to meticulous planning, effective coordination, and the dedication of all stakeholders. He also expressed appreciation to Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for his unwavering support and commitment to the welfare of pilgrims.
Matawalle disclosed that the Board provided hand luggage and official uniforms to all 3,611 Kano pilgrims to ensure convenience and uniformity throughout the pilgrimage. It also renovated the mosque at the Hajj Terminal of Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, upgraded the Hajj demonstration ground and toilet facilities, and donated chairs and electric fans to improve pilgrims’ comfort before departure.
According to him, each pilgrim received financial support of 200 Saudi Riyals to assist with immediate expenses upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. The Board also donated four Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units to the Nigerian Immigration Service at the airport to enhance immigration services during the Hajj exercise.
He added that, through the support of ASIA Group of Companies, detergents and toothpaste were distributed free of charge to all Kano pilgrims, while shuttle buses were provided to transport them between their accommodation and the Grand Mosque (Al-Haram) in Makkah for the five daily prayers.
The Director General said the Board successfully airlifted all 3,611 registered pilgrims to Saudi Arabia and ensured their safe return to Nigeria, achieving a 100 percent completion rate with no pilgrim left stranded after the Hajj.
He noted that strong collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Saudi authorities, airlines, healthcare personnel, security agencies, and other service providers contributed significantly to the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
Matawalle further revealed that continuous medical services were provided throughout the exercise, while enhanced enlightenment and orientation programmes improved pilgrims’ compliance with Hajj regulations. Proper identification and documentation also helped reduce cases of missing pilgrims during movements between the holy sites.
Despite operational challenges at Saudi airports, the Board recovered about 30 pieces of luggage left in pilgrims’ accommodation and over 100 pieces of abandoned luggage at Saudi airports. An international cargo company was engaged to transport all recovered items back to Kano for distribution to their rightful owners.
He commended the discipline, patience, and cooperation of Kano pilgrims, saying their exemplary conduct reflected the values and dignity of the state and contributed immensely to the overall success of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Matawalle reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to improving future Hajj operations, stating that lessons learned from this year’s exercise would guide preparations for subsequent pilgrimages. He concluded by thanking Almighty Allah for a successful Hajj and prayed for continued peace, unity, and prosperity for Kano State and Nigeria.
