Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved over N265 million as a complimentary package for 3,620 conventional pilgrims from Kano embarking on the 2026 Hajj exercise. The fund is intended to support their basic needs while in Saudi Arabia.
Governor's Announcement During Hajj Practical Demonstration
The governor disclosed the state's gesture during the annual Hajj Practical Demonstration Exercise on Sunday. He cautioned the intending pilgrims to adhere strictly to the rules and regulations of Saudi Arabian authorities while in the holy land. Represented by Deputy Governor Murtala Sule Garo, Governor Yusuf stated that the government is giving 200 Saudi Riyal to each pilgrim registered under the state pilgrims' board to ease their spiritual exercise.
Deputy Governor's Advice to Pilgrims
Deputy Governor Garo reminded the intending pilgrims from Kano to prepare their minds and souls ahead of the spiritual journey, which requires utmost dedication, patience, and discipline to perform the rituals in Saudi Arabia. He explained that the practical demonstration serves as a step-by-step guide to Hajj activities, helping pilgrims understand what to expect. He urged the state contingents to adhere strictly to the teachings and orientation for a rewarding exercise.
Garo appealed to the pilgrims to make time for worship, seek forgiveness, and devote ample time to pray for peace and tranquility in Nigeria, particularly Kano State, while also praying for the success of Governor Yusuf's administration. He emphasized, "Your journey to Saudi Arabia is not a mere journey. It is a step-by-step exercise that requires adequate knowledge, discipline, patience, and sincere devotion to Allah. This exercise is necessary for understanding the right principles of Islam in accordance with Islamic teachings."
He called on all Muslims to pay close attention to the guidance provided by scholars, doctors, and officials. "The practical lessons learned so far are meant to ensure that all Muslims perform the Hajj rightfully, reasonably, and successfully. Let me pass on that everyone of you who has been chosen by Allah to perform this spiritual duty. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is done with physical and spiritual readiness. The fact that you are here today, undergoing practical training and preparing yourself for this moment, shows your commitment to fulfil your obligation in the best manner possible. It is our prayer that through this training, you will perform your Hajj rite correctly, safely, and with full consciousness of its spiritual significance."
Garo also commended the leadership and staff of the state pilgrims' board for their tireless efforts in ensuring that this year's Hajj operations are well coordinated, from collection of prayers to medical screening, artistic arrangements, and the practical orientation.
Preparations and Inaugural Flight Schedule
Earlier, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims' Welfare Board, Alh. Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, announced that all arrangements for the inaugural flight scheduled for May 14, 2026, have been perfected. Matawalle revealed that Kano has secured visas for all registered pilgrims and officials and has concluded all exercises, including medical inoculation and issuance of clothes and bags ahead of departure. He cautioned pilgrims against carrying contraband items in their luggage and urged them to strictly adhere to flight schedules. He also confirmed that the official Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) is ready for disbursement to pilgrims.
NAHCON Zonal Coordinator's Remarks
The Zonal Coordinator of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in charge of Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina States, Umar Muhammad, reminded the intending pilgrims to avoid any act that could bring Kano and Nigeria into disrepute in the holy land. He charged them to be mindful of the exchange rate in Saudi Arabia and to stay vigilant against dubious characters who may attempt to defraud pilgrims of their BTA.
Highlights of the Occasion
The event featured a practical demonstration of key spiritual exercises that pilgrims will undergo in Makkah, Muna, Arafah, Musdalifah, and Jamurah.
