"Spiritual Journey Begins: Kebbi Pilgrims in Madina"

By Umar Faruk, Birnin Kebbi

A group of 423 pilgrims from Kebbi State arrived safely at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Madina, on Monday, as part of the 2025 Hajj exercise. The flight, which departed from Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, carried members of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency (PWA) Board, government officials, PWA staff, and prominent Islamic scholars.

Upon arrival, the pilgrims commenced visits to significant Islamic sites in Madina as part of their spiritual preparation for the Hajj pilgrimage in Makkah. The visits were guided by Islamic scholars, including Malam Sharif Jega, Malam Aliyu Rini Jega, Muftin Gwandu, and Abubakar Wadata Kangiwa, the Hajj Guide for Arewa Local Government Area.

Malam Aliyu Rini Jega explained the spiritual significance of Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Islam following the Prophet's migration (Hijrah) to Madina. "The mosque holds great spiritual significance, as referenced in the Holy Qur’an, and offering two rak’ahs of prayer there is rewarded as if one performs both Hajj and Umrah," he said.

Abubakar Wadata Kangiwa also explained the importance of Mount Uhud, where notable companions of the Prophet (SAW), including Sayyiduna Hamza and others, were martyred during the famous Battle of Uhud.

The pilgrims visited other significant sites, including Masjid Qiblatain, where they were enlightened on the spiritual importance of the sites and emphasized the need for fervent prayers for the nation, Kebbi State, leaders, families, and friends.

The scholars and Hajj officials commended Governor Nasir Idris for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Kebbi State pilgrims. They also praised the Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Alhaji Faruku Musa Yaro, for his effective coordination and management of the Hajj operations.

The visit to these historic sites is a crucial part of the pilgrims' spiritual preparation for the Hajj pilgrimage, and it is expected to enhance their understanding of the significance of the Hajj rituals.