…Urges Discipline, Prayers for Gombe & Nigeria
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has bid farewell to a total of 962 intending pilgrims from Gombe State who are set to embark on the 2025 Hajj to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Speaking during a farewell ceremony held in Gombe on Sunday, the Governor cautioned the intending pilgrims against any form of misconduct, particularly drug trafficking and careless handling of luggage, which could attract dire consequences in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, urged the intending pilgrims to represent the state and country with dignity.
“Let me make it clear: drug trafficking carries capital punishment in Saudi Arabia. Do not, under any circumstances, carry items or luggage you did not pack yourself,” the Governor warned.
He emphasized the need for discipline, vigilance, and environmental hygiene.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya also reminded the pilgrims that the Hajj is a spiritual obligation, not a shopping expedition, and encouraged them to focus on worship, prayer, and personal reflection throughout their stay in the holy land.
The Governor assured that his administration, through the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, has put in place all necessary arrangements for a seamless exercise, including decent accommodation, a standby medical team, and experienced guides, especially considering that over 95% of this year’s pilgrims are first-timers.
“Our government remains committed to the welfare, safety, and comfort of our pilgrims. You are ambassadors of Gombe and Nigeria. Conduct yourselves with dignity and respect the laws of the host country,” he added.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya charged officials and guides accompanying the pilgrims to be diligent in their duties, stressing that over 95% of the pilgrims are first-timers in need of proper guidance and support.
The Governor prayed for a safe journey a successful Hajj, and divine blessings for the pilgrims.
He also urged them to remember Gombe State and Nigeria in their prayers, particularly for peace, unity, and an end to insecurity.
“I wish you Allah’s guidance, safe flight, and Hajj Mabroor,” Governor Inuwa Yahaya said.
In his goodwill remarks, the Chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and Emir of Dukku, His Royal Highness Alhaji Haruna Abdulkadir Rashid, thanked Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his continued support and commitment to Hajj operations in the state.
He urged the pilgrims to avoid extravagance and focus on the spiritual significance of the journey.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, commended the Governor for proactively securing conducive accommodation and comprehensive medical support for the pilgrims.
He described the state’s preparations as one of the best in the country, attributing it to the Governor’s leadership and foresight.
During the event, prominent Islamic scholars (Ulamas) delivered sermons, offering spiritual guidance and reminding the intending pilgrims of the proper conduct and religious protocols of the Hajj.
The ceremony also featured special prayers for a safe journey, a successful and accepted pilgrimage, and for lasting peace and prosperity in Gombe State and Nigeria.
Ismaila Uba Misilli
Director-General
( Press Affairs)
Government House
Gombe
