By Soliu Oyesiji
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has commended the state Ministry of Transport, the Niger State Pilgrims Welfare Board and officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for the successful airlift of intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj.
The governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, described the exercise as successful and attributed it to effective collaboration, proper management, dedication and commitment by all stakeholders involved.
Bago also praised the state Amirul Hajj, the Emir of Agaie, Yusuf Nuhu, security agencies, medical personnel, travel agencies, airline staff and airport officials for ensuring a smooth operation.
He assured that his administration would continue to introduce reforms aimed at making Hajj operations seamless for intending pilgrims in the state.
The governor urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly throughout the pilgrimage and pray for peace and stability in Niger State and Nigeria.
A total of 2,281 intending pilgrims from the 25 local government areas of the state were airlifted to Saudi Arabia through six scheduled flights from the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport, Minna, between May 11 and May 17, 2026.
