By Umar Faruk, Birnin Kebbi
The first batch of 420 pilgrims from Kebbi State to this year's Hajj departed the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, Friday evening, for a direct flight to Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Under the present arrangements, all the pilgrims are in possession of their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash.
Kebbi Deputy Governor, Sen. Umar Abubakar Tafida, the State Amirul Hajj, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama'ila Muhammadu Mera, and the Executive Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruq Aliyu Yaro (Enabo), were at the airport to bid them farewell prior to their departure. In separate remarks, they expressed gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris for making it possible to achieve such a feat in the early and smooth evacuation of the pilgrims.
The Amirul Hajj, Emir of Argungu, confirmed that all processes of the airlift operation of the 3,800 pilgrims from Kebbi have been completed. "All passports, visas, and BTA have been received for the departure of the pilgrims from the 21 Local Government Areas of the state," he said. "A total of 420 pilgrims, with an equal number between males and females, were airlifted in the maiden flight," the Emir added.
The Executive Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Faruq Aliyu Yaro, affirmed that the airlift operation would continue back-to-back in eight trips non-stop until all the pilgrims were evacuated to the Holy Land. The pilgrims were onboard Flynas Airline, Airbus A380-900 series.
The officials' presence at the airport underscored the government's commitment to ensuring the smooth departure of the pilgrims. The Kebbi State Government's efforts to facilitate the pilgrims' journey reflect its dedication to supporting the spiritual endeavors of its citizens.
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Hajj