By Hajiya Amina Hamisu Isma’il
The 2026 Amirul Hajj and Member representing Wase Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje, has congratulated Plateau State pilgrims on the successful completion of their Hajj rites.
Speaking to the pilgrims at a meeting held in two hotels in Makkah, M Diyar Al Waad Hostel and Ritaj Al Haramain Hotel, after the completion of the Hajj exercise, he thanked Almighty Allah for granting them a successful pilgrimage and safe return to Makkah. He also urged the pilgrims to make good use of the remaining days of their stay in the holy city by increasing their acts of worship and visiting the Holy Haram before their departure to Nigeria.
The Amirul Hajj disclosed that the return journey of Plateau pilgrims to Nigeria will commence on 9th June 2026 with the departure of the first batch. According to him, the second batch will follow thereafter, while the final flight is scheduled for 11th June 2026, Insha Allah.
Rt. Hon. Maje emphasized the need for reforms in the pilgrims’ administration system. He stated that comprehensive information on pilgrims should be properly documented to ensure transparency and accountability. He further stressed that intending pilgrims should make their payments directly to the Board without involving third parties.
He reiterated that there should be no intermediary between pilgrims and the Board, noting that the involvement of middlemen often creates unnecessary problems and misunderstandings.
The Amirul Hajj also commended the Executive Governor of Plateau State for his immense support towards the success of the 2026 Hajj operations, particularly for providing a permanent site for the Board, which has contributed to more efficient operations.
He further advised all Plateau pilgrims to respect the laws of the airport authorities by not carrying any unlawful items in their 23kg checked luggage and 8kg hand luggage. He said strict compliance with these regulations will help pilgrims depart in peace and harmony.
In an interview, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda, expressed appreciation to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for appointing Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje as the Amirul Hajj and for approving government officials to accompany the pilgrims from Plateau State. He also thanked the Governor for his continuous support and commitment to the activities of the Board, which contributed significantly to the success of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
