The first group of 410 pilgrims from Kebbi State who performed this year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia has returned home safely. The pilgrims, hailing from Arewa and Jega Local Government Areas, arrived at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, at 9:42 pm on Saturday aboard a Flynas Airline A330-900 Airbus.
This arrival marks the beginning of the homeward journey for Nigerian pilgrims from the Holy Land, with Kebbi State being the first to launch the airlift operation to the Hajj one month ago.
Speaking to the press shortly after the pilgrims’ arrival, Alhaji Safiyanu Garba Bena, Chairman of the 12-member reception committee and the State Head of Civil Service, expressed his elation over the smooth conduct of the Hajj operation.
“A total of 410 pilgrims came back to Kebbi this night, (Saturday, 22/6/2024). As you can see, they are in good health and were evacuated together with their luggage from Saudi Arabia back home,” said Bena.
He continued, “We thank Almighty Allah for His Bountiful Mercy and also commend our compassionate Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, for his charisma and love for his people in all spheres of life. He has high regard for religious matters as the basic foundation for a decent and prosperous society. The Governor has been at the forefront of ensuring the smooth conduct and success of the Hajj operation, which we are celebrating today.”
“Kebbi commenced the outward journey to the Hajj 2024 and is the first to start the return airlift. Kauran Gwandu deserves our commendation and prayers for success, guidance, and wisdom from the Almighty God in steering the affairs of our dear state to fruition,” Alhaji Bena remarked.
The Chairman of the reception committee also announced that the second batch of pilgrims is scheduled to land at the airport on Sunday.
