"Hajj 2025: Bauchi Board Praises Gov's Support, Stakeholders' Efforts"

By Khalid Idris Doya

The Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the successful completion of the 2025 Hajj exercise, as 2,550 pilgrims from the state have safely returned home from Saudi Arabia. Speaking to journalists at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (SATBIA), Bauchi, after the five and final MaxAir return flight landed at about 10 a.m. with 398 pilgrims, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Imam Abdurrahman Ibrahim Idris, described the exercise as one of the most peaceful and successful.

Imam Abdurrahman commended state Governor Bala Mohammed for his unwavering support throughout the Hajj operation, saying the governor’s contributions enabled the board to coordinate timely departures, provide adequate accommodation in Mecca, Madina, and Mina, and ensure a smooth return for the pilgrims. "This year’s Hajj was one of the best we have witnessed," he said. "From preparation to execution, it was well-coordinated with minimal hitches. We thank Almighty Allah for a safe and successful operation."

The Executive Secretary also praised the efforts of the 2025 Amirul Hajj chairman and Emir of Jama’are, Alhaji Nuhu Ahmed Wabi; his deputy, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman; and other members of the team; as well as all stakeholders, including security personnel, Hajj officials, and support staff who contributed to the exercise’s success.

However, Imam Abdurrahman noted that the only challenge encountered was the limited return flight schedule by MaxAir, which slightly affected the timing of homebound trips. He called on the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to allocate more return slots to airlines in future exercises to prevent delays.

Imam Abdurrahman assured that the board would conduct a thorough review of the 2025 operations to improve planning and logistics for the 2026 Hajj. "We reaffirm the board’s commitment to ensuring the welfare, comfort, and spiritual fulfillment of pilgrims in subsequent pilgrimages," he said.