By Abdulkadir Aliyu Shehu
The first batch of pilgrims from Gombe State who participated in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is scheduled to return to Nigeria on Thursday, June 27, while the second batch is expected on Saturday, June 29, according to the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
This update was made known by the Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, in a telephone interview from Makkah, where he is currently supervising the welfare and logistics of the pilgrims from the state.
Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan confirmed that all pilgrims from Gombe are in good health, with no reports of serious medical conditions throughout the pilgrimage. “We thank Almighty Allah for His protection and mercy. Our pilgrims are doing well and many are still engaged in spiritual activities at the Masjid al-Haram,” he stated.
He praised the excellent conduct of the pilgrims, emphasizing that they have been peaceful, law-abiding, and disciplined during their stay in the Holy Land. “There have been no reports of violations or misconduct. Our pilgrims have maintained high levels of decorum and spiritual focus,” he added.
Preparations for their return to Nigeria, he said, are in full swing. A key part of the process the distribution of checked luggage has already been completed, with each pilgrim receiving a 38kg allowance as stipulated by airline guidelines.
“All logistical processes, including documentation, accommodation clearance, and coordination with transport providers, have been effectively managed to ensure the safe and timely return of our pilgrims,” he noted.
Alhaji Sa’adu expressed his deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, for his continuous and generous support to the board before and throughout the Hajj exercise.
“Governor Inuwa Yahaya has provided both financial and moral support without hesitation. His leadership has been instrumental to the successful planning and execution of this year’s Hajj operations,” he said.
He emphasized that the level of support from the Governor made it possible for the board to prepare early, respond to challenges effectively, and deliver quality services to the pilgrims from Gombe State.
The Secretary also commended the dedication and professionalism of the board’s staff and officials deployed to Saudi Arabia, describing their efforts as tireless and essential to the smooth coordination of the pilgrimage.
According to him, all major rites of Hajj have been completed by the pilgrims, with only the Tawaf al-Wada’ (farewell circumambulation of the Ka’bah) remaining before departure.
“Once the pilgrims perform their farewell Tawaf, they will be fully set for their return journey. Everything is being handled in accordance with Saudi regulations and NAHCON’s schedule,” he affirmed.
He added that flight arrangements are being coordinated in partnership with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), which is facilitating the return of Nigerian pilgrims to their respective states.
Alhaji Sa’adu disclosed that grouping of the pilgrims according to their scheduled return flights has commenced. Orientation briefings are also being held to ensure that pilgrims are well informed and organized ahead of departure.
He reassured the public that the welfare board remains committed to upholding transparency, accountability, and excellence in service delivery throughout the remainder of the Hajj operations.
“We are already looking ahead. Once this year’s Hajj concludes, we will immediately begin a detailed review of our activities to identify areas for improvement and start early preparations for the 2026 Hajj season,” he stated.
He also applauded the resilience and spiritual discipline shown by the pilgrims, particularly those undertaking the sacred journey for the first time, and urged them to carry the lessons learned into their lives back home.
“This pilgrimage has offered many people a renewed sense of faith and purpose. We hope they return as better individuals, inspired by the values of patience, sacrifice, and reflection,” he added.
He prayed for the safe return of all pilgrims and for the acceptance of their acts of worship, urging them to remain prayerful and grateful for the opportunity to perform Hajj.
As the return journey approaches, the atmosphere in Makkah remains calm and focused, with pilgrims spending their final days in devotion, gratitude, and spiritual fulfillment.
This year’s successful Hajj operation is a testament to the efficiency of Gombe State’s planning and leadership. With continued support from Governor Inuwa Yahaya, the Pilgrims Welfare Board is poised to build on this momentum for future pilgrimages