By Hajiya Amina Hamisu Isma’il
The Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has successfully concluded the airlift operation of 1138 intending pilgrims for the 2026 hajj. The exercise was carried out in three batches through Umza Airlines, transporting pilgrims from Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The first batch of intending pilgrims departed on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 5:55 a.m. Nigerian time and arrived in Madinah at 11:55 a.m. Saudi time, conveying 481 pilgrims, while the batch departed on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 1:20 a.m. Nigerian time and arrived in Madinah at 8:20 a.m. Saudi time, conveying 482 pilgrims.
The last batch departed on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 9:30 p.m. Nigerian time and arrived in Madinah at 4:30 a.m. Saudi time, marking the successful completion of the airlift operation.
Upon arrival in Madinah, the pilgrims were accommodated at Arkan Aldahbi Hotel, Al Hayat International Hotel, and Al Zahrah Hotel. They are expected to spend four days in Madinah engaging in prayers and other religious activities before proceeding to Makkah for the commencement of Hajj rites.
The Executive Secretary of the Plateau State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda, expressed satisfaction with the smooth and successful coordination of the exercise.
He commended the Amirul Hajj, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Idris Maje; the Board Chairman, Danladi Kwari; government officials; board members; management; and operational staff for their dedication, cooperation, and teamwork throughout the process.
Alhaji Dauda reassured pilgrims of the board’s continued commitment to their welfare and wellbeing throughout the pilgrimage. He urged them to remain patient, disciplined, law-abiding, and conscious of the spiritual significance of Hajj.
He also appreciated the pilgrims for their cooperation and prayed for a successful and accepted Hajj for all participants.
