Press release
As preparations intensify for the 2026 Hajj exercise, the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency has commenced full-scale activities to ensure a smooth and successful operation.
On Monday, the Agency began vaccinating officials scheduled for the holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia and inaugurated members of various sub-committees.
During the flag-off ceremony for the vaccination exercise and inauguration of committees, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu), was commended for his unquantifiable support towards the successful planning and execution of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The commendation was made by the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruk Musa Yaro (Enabo), during the inauguration of committees for the 2026 Hajj operations.
Speaking at the event, Alhaji Enabo expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for blessing the state with capable leadership, noting that the administration of Governor Nasir Idris has consistently prioritized the welfare of pilgrims and ensured seamless Hajj operations.
He also acknowledged the contributions of key government officials, including the Honourable Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Arc. Muhammad Sani Aliyu, mni, and other stakeholders.
The Chairman stated that the 2026 Hajj marks the fourth Hajj operation under the current administration, describing previous exercises as highly successful.
He attributed Kebbi State’s recognition as a leading states in Hajj management in Nigeria to the Governor’s unwavering support, as well as the dedication of committees, board members, and staff of the Agency.
Alhaji Enabo urged intending pilgrims and officials to uphold the fear of Allah, patience, and discipline throughout the exercise. He emphasized that Hajj requires endurance and good character, adding that the treatment of pilgrims leaves lasting impressions, and called on officials to always act with compassion and responsibility at all times.
He further disclosed that Governor Nasir Idris has paid for the Hajj Hadya (sacrificial animal) for all pilgrims from Kebbi State, describing the gesture as unprecedented and a clear demonstration of his commitment to easing the burden on citizens. He called on beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture with prayers for the continued success of the administration.
The Chairman also announced that preparations for the 2027 Hajj have already commenced, with a minimum initial deposit set at five million naira to enable intending pilgrims to plan ahead with ease.
He urged stakeholders and local government officials to encourage early payments to secure slots and improve planning efficiency.
In a bid to ensure a hitch-free exercise, Alhaji Enabo inaugurated various committees, including those on feeding, transport, accommodation, health and hygiene, security, media, and welfare.
He added that advance teams would be deployed early to Saudi Arabia to finalize arrangements ahead of pilgrims’s arrival.
He stressed the importance of proper identification and handling of pilgrims’ luggage, urging Hajj guides to ensure all bags are clearly labeled with necessary details to avoid mix-ups during transit. According to him, lessons learned from previous exercises have informed new strategies aimed at improving service delivery.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Government Delegation, Alhaji Ahmad Jafar Jega, former Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service, commended Governor Idris for the confidence reposed in the delegation and assured that members would work collaboratively with all committees—without interference—to ensure a success exercise.
Highlights of the event included preparatory meetings by committee members, formal inauguration of sub-committees, and the flag-off of vaccination for government delegation members and officials.
Stakeholders unanimously expressed optimism that the 2026 Hajj operation would be the most successful in the history of Kebbi State.
Yahaya Sarki
Special Adviser (SA) on Media and Publicity
to the Kebbi State Governor
20/4/2026
