The Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has announced the completion of all necessary arrangements for the 2025 Hajj exercise in Saudi Arabia, assuring intending pilgrims of smooth operations and adequate welfare support throughout the pilgrimage.
Speaking during the agency’s inaugural meeting in Birnin Kebbi, the 2025 Amirul Hajj and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, confirmed that a total of 3,800 pilgrims from Kebbi State have fully paid their Hajj fares ahead of this year’s spiritual journey.
According to the Amirul Hajj, the airlift of pilgrims will officially commence on May 9, 2025, with subsequent flights scheduled to continue without interruption until all pilgrims are transported to the Holy Land.
In a significant development aimed at protecting pilgrims from exploitation, Alhaji Mera revealed that this year’s pilgrims will receive their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash, directly in Saudi Riyal, before departure. This, he said, is to eliminate malpractice and ensure fair currency exchange dealings both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The Amirul Hajj also charged members of the government delegation and officials of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency to discharge their duties diligently, with integrity and the fear of God. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights and welfare of pilgrims in line with Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to delivering a seamless and exemplary Hajj operation.
On his part, the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruk Musa Yaro, pledged full cooperation with the Hajj delegation, assuring that accommodation, feeding, transport services, and other essential logistics have already been secured for Kebbi pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. He added that the services of Flynas Airline, which successfully handled last year’s airlift, have been retained for this year’s operation.
In preparation for the journey, vaccination exercises have also commenced, with the Amirul Hajj and other members of the government delegation receiving their immunizations from designated medical personnel, marking the official start of the vaccination program for all intending pilgrims.