By Soliu Oyesiji
The Yobe State Pilgrims Commission has flagged off the vaccination of intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj.
The exercise, conducted in collaboration with the state Primary Health Care agency, was inaugurated on Monday at the commission’s conference hall in Damaturu.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of the commission, Mai Aliyu Usman, said the exercise was critical to ensuring a successful Hajj.
“This vaccination exercise underscores our readiness for a successful 2026 Hajj. Safeguarding the health of our pilgrims is both a requirement and a responsibility,” he said.
He urged intending pilgrims to comply with health guidelines and participate in all enlightenment programmes.
“I encourage you to be law-abiding and patient throughout the Hajj process. Please attend all scheduled lectures to gain proper knowledge of the rites and practical guidance for the journey,” Usman added.
The chairman also monitored the exercise and administered the first dose to an intending pilgrim.
Also speaking, the Deputy Director of Disease Control and Immunisation, Babagana Machina, said the vaccines being administered include meningitis, oral polio and yellow fever.
“These vaccinations are mandatory under the health regulations of Saudi Arabia. The yellow fever vaccine is valid for 10 years, while the meningitis vaccine lasts three years,” he said.
Machina advised pilgrims to report any severe or prolonged side effects to medical personnel.
The vaccination exercise has commenced across the state’s 17 local government areas as part of broader preparations for the pilgrimage.
