The Kwara State Government has announced that the airlifting of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj will kick off on May 6, 2026, with departures taking off from the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin to Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, made this known on Sunday during an orientation programme held for prospective pilgrims at the board’s headquarters in Ilorin.
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“Airlifting of Kwara pilgrims will begin on May 6 from the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, en route to Saudi Arabia,” Abdulkadir stated.
He explained that the exercise would be carried out in phases to ensure smooth coordination.
“The second batch is scheduled to leave on May 7, while the third group will depart on May 9,” he added.
Abdulkadir also noted that Saudi authorities have introduced new identification measures aimed at improving organisation and safety during the pilgrimage.
“Pilgrims will be issued ID cards containing their personal details upon arrival in Medina, which will assist them during their Hajj rites in Mecca,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Board, Mashood Mahmud-Jimba, praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his consistent support towards ensuring successful Hajj operations in the state.
“I commend the Governor for his continued backing, which has contributed to the smooth planning of this year’s Hajj,” Mahmud-Jimba said.
“We are grateful to Almighty Allah for the level of preparation achieved so far and for the Governor’s dedication to facilitating a seamless pilgrimage,” he added.
He also reassured the pilgrims that all necessary arrangements had been concluded ahead of their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
“Accommodation, transportation, and tents in Mina and Arafat have already been secured and are in place,” he said.
In a lecture delivered at the programme, the Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Abdullateef Kamaldeen, urged intending pilgrims to conduct themselves with piety throughout the journey.
“Pilgrims must carry out their Hajj with a strong sense of devotion and fear of Allah,” Kamaldeen advised.
“You should remain patient while in the Holy Land to ensure a successful pilgrimage,” he added.
The programme concluded with special prayers for a smooth and successful Hajj operation, led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Abdulhameed Abdullahi, alongside Imam Gambari, Ajanasi Agba of Ilorin, and the Amir Hajj for this year, the Etsu Tsaragi, Aliyu Kpotwa
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