By: Mukhtar Yahaya Shehu
As the 2025 Hajj season reaches its sacred climax, pilgrims from around the world are spiritually preparing for the core rites of Hajj including the nights at Mina and Muzdalifah, the revered Day of Arfa which falls on the Thursday, 9 Dhul Hijjah 1446 and the deeply symbolic Hadaya (slaughtering of ram). These rites represent the highest expressions of submission, devotion, and unity in Islam.
In a statement signed by Samira Sulaiman member state 2025 Media Team said the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board is pleased to announce the safe and complete arrival of all Kano State pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims have settled in and are fully prepared to commence the sacred journey with renewed faith and discipline.
In a demonstration of leadership and spiritual solidarity, the Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has also arrived in the holy land and will be serving as the Amirul Hajj for the 2025 pilgrimage. His Excellency has hit the ground running, engaging relevant Saudi and Nigerian/Kano Hajj authorities to ensure the highest level of organization, welfare, and spiritual guidance for Kano pilgrims.
Among the critical aspects of the pilgrimage, pilgrims will observe the Day of Arafat standing in supplication and devotion, seeking forgiveness and divine mercy. It is vital that all pilgrims depart the plains of Arafat before sunset, in accordance with prophetic tradition. Pilgrims will also participate in the Hadaya, symbolizing the spirit of sacrifice and obedience to Allah.
To support the wellbeing of Kano pilgrims, the Kano State Health Committee is working round-the-clock, providing quality medical attention and preventive healthcare services to all pilgrims in need. For now, a standard clinic runs in the Pilgrims Lodge while the team will be stationed across various key locations at Arfat, Mina and Muzdalifa to respond promptly to any medical emergencies.
In parallel, the Bita (Orientation and Islamic Education) Committee continues to deliver daily Islamic lectures and spiritual reminders to guide pilgrims on the performance of Hajj rites, reinforce prayer schedules, and elevate their understanding of the spiritual journey they are undertaking.
In a major stride toward transparency and public engagement, the Official 2025 Hajj Media Team is also on ground, and will be giving live coverage and real-time updates as the rites are being observed. The team is committed to ensuring that families back home and the public at large stay informed and spiritually connected throughout the Hajj season.
Meanwhile, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that the Hajj Khutbah 1446 will be translated into 34 languages, including three Nigerian languages which is Hausa, Yoruba, and Fula. This effort ensures deeper understanding and inclusion of millions of non-Arabic speaking Muslims around the world and is particularly significant for pilgrims from Nigeria.
However, as we mark these moments of deep faith, our hearts are also burdened with sorrow over the tragic accident that occurred yesterday at Daka Tsalle, which claimed the lives of several young and talented athletes. The entire Kano Hajj delegation, along with His Excellency the Governor, extend our sincere condolences to the grieving families, the Kano State sports community, and all affected citizens.
We pray that’s Almighty Allah forgives the departed, grants them Aljannatul Firdaus, and comforts their families with strength and sabr (patience) during this painful time.
As the Hajj progresses, we call on the good people of Kano and the wider Nigerian Ummah to keep our pilgrims in their prayers. May Allah accept their Hajj, return them safely, and may the blessings of this sacred season overflow into our homes and communities.
