The Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has issued a stern warning to pilgrims to strictly adhere to prescribed luggage weight limits to avoid delays during their return journey from Saudi Arabia.
Sheikh Haliru Maraya's Advisory
The Chairman of the Preaching Sub-Committee of the Agency, Sheikh Haliru Maraya, emphasized that excess luggage could cause significant delays for outbound flights to Nigeria. He delivered this message after the Zuhr (afternoon) prayers at the Ibrahim Khalil residence in Makkah, urging pilgrims to follow airport protocols at Prince Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah.
Return Flight Schedule
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Uba Sani, Malam Ibraheem Musa, on Sunday, confirmed that the airlift of Kaduna pilgrims back home will commence on June 15, 2026. Sheikh Maraya implored pilgrims to act as good ambassadors of Kaduna State by complying with all rules and regulations.
Sanctions for Misconduct
The Islamic cleric warned that the agency will sanction any pilgrim who incites others to break the law. He noted that Kaduna State is renowned for its adherence to law and order, and Governor Uba Sani's public life—as an activist, Senator, and Governor—has always revolved around due process and the rule of law. Pilgrims were cautioned against invoking the Governor's name to justify unlawful behavior.
Historical Tragedies Recalled
Sheikh Maraya also highlighted the fatal consequences of excess luggage, referencing two plane crashes involving Nigerian pilgrims. On January 22, 1973 (Dhul-Hijjah 18, 1392), a crash killed 176 of the 202 passengers on board. Another crash on July 11, 1991 (Dhul-Hijjah 29, 1411), at Jeddah claimed 261 lives, including 247 passengers and 14 crew members, shortly after takeoff. The Sheikh urged pilgrims to learn from these tragedies and prioritize safety.
