Kwara Completes 2026 Hajj Airlift as Final Batch of 557 Pilgrims Departs for Saudi Arabia

The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has concluded the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise with the departure of a third batch of 557 pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims took off from the Babatunde Idi-Agbon International Airport, Ilorin, at about 10:09 a.m. aboard a Max Air flight, marking the final phase of the state’s Hajj airlift operations for the year.

Before departure, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, charged the pilgrims to maintain discipline and uphold the image of Kwara State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land.

He urged them to be of good conduct, saying they must avoid any behaviour that could bring embarrassment to the state or the country.

“Be law-abiding, remain disciplined, and see yourselves as ambassadors of Kwara State and Nigeria,” he said, adding that peaceful coexistence, patience, and understanding among pilgrims were essential for a successful Hajj.

Alhaji Abdulkadir also advised them to strictly comply with all Hajj rules and guidelines, while praying for a smooth and hitch-free exercise.

The Chairman of the Board, Professor Moshood Mahmud-Jimba, also addressed the pilgrims, urging them to remain focused on the spiritual purpose of the pilgrimage and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects its sanctity.

He prayed for their safe journey, successful completion of the Hajj rites, and safe return to Nigeria.

The pilgrims were accompanied by two officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Board member Alhaja Khadijat Ab-tabwy, the Onipe of Ipe, Oba Muftau Lawal, and the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Agboola Moshood.