By: Yau Waziri
A total of 962 intending pilgrims from Gombe State are set to be airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in the Holy Land of Makkah.
Speaking during the farewell address, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, assured that the state government has made adequate arrangements through the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to ensure the comfort and welfare of the pilgrims.
The Governor noted that befitting accommodations have been secured in the city of Makkah, and a competent medical team is in place to cater to the health needs of the pilgrims throughout the exercise.
He attributed the success of previous Hajj operations to the dedication of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, its staff, and the exemplary conduct of Gombe State pilgrims.
He urged the 2025 pilgrims to maintain the same level of discipline and patriotism by obeying all constituted authorities and following laid-down procedures, particularly regarding flight schedules and internal movements in Makkah and Madinah.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya issued a stern warning against carrying prohibited items, especially narcotic drugs, whose penalty in Saudi Arabia is death.
He advised pilgrims to avoid accepting luggage from others, particularly when unfamiliar with the contents, to avoid falling victim to illegal activities.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Saadu Hassan, disclosed that the first flight will convey 560 pilgrims.
He urged all intending pilgrims to uphold the image of Gombe State and Nigeria by refraining from any act that could bring disrepute.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Abdulkadir Rashid, commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya for providing accommodations close to the Haram in Makkah.
He also appealed to the pilgrims to comply with all rules and regulations and to serve as worthy ambassadors of the state and the country while in the Holy Land.
