*By Hajiya Amina Hamisu Isma’il*
The Amirul Hajj for the 2026 Hajj exercise, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje, who is also the Member representing Wase Federal Constituency, witnessed the distribution of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s Sallah gifts to Plateau State pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Speaking during the event, Rt. Hon. Maje expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve and witness the distribution of the Sallah gifts to Plateau pilgrims. He described the gesture as a reflection of Governor Mutfwang’s inclusive leadership and commitment to the welfare of all citizens of Plateau State. He also recalled that before bidding farewell to the pilgrims, Governor Mutfwang donated free Ihram materials to all Plateau pilgrims.
The Amirul Hajj commended the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda; the Board Chairman, Alhaji Danladi Kwari; board members; and the management team for their dedication, unity, and professionalism throughout the Hajj operations.
He stated that, based on what he had witnessed, he would advise Governor Mutfwang not to change the current leadership of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, considering their outstanding performance and commitment to service.
Rt. Hon. Maje also urged the pilgrims to use the opportunity of their stay in the Holy Land to pray for their parents, children, loved ones, Plateau State, and Nigeria as a whole. He further advised them to make good use of the Sallah gifts received from the government, noting that responsible utilization of such support would encourage the government to continue extending similar gestures in the future.
The Amirul Hajj also supervised the tagging, weighing, and evacuation of luggage belonging to pilgrims scheduled for the first return flight to Nigeria and expressed satisfaction with the process.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda, stated that the Board remains committed to the welfare of all pilgrims and continues to work tirelessly to ensure their safe and successful return to Nigeria.
He emphasized that all necessary arrangements had been concluded in collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to facilitate the return of Plateau pilgrims. According to him, the first and second flights are scheduled for 9 June 2026, while the final flight is expected to depart on 11 June 2026, Insha Allah.
Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda also appreciated the Amirul Hajj, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje, for his encouragement and support throughout the exercise. He further commended the Board Chairman, government officials, and other stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the 2026 Hajj operations.
He once again expressed gratitude to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for his unwavering support to the Board and for the generous Sallah gifts extended to Plateau pilgrims.
