By Umar Faruk
Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria — June 4, 2026 (Series News Online)- Kebbi State’s first batch of 2026 Hajj pilgrims landed safely at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, at 10:09 a.m. on Thursday, marking the official commencement of the state’s return operations.
The Flynas airline flight departed Saudi Arabia at about 3:10 a.m. Nigeria time and conveyed 426 pilgrims back to the state capital. Officials said the pilgrims were drawn from Koko-Besse, Aliero, and Bunza Local Government Areas, alongside officials of the Kebbi State Government and the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Pilgrims from Koko-Besse and Aliero, who spoke anonymously, expressed gratitude to God for a successful Hajj and commended the state government for its support throughout the exercise.
“I thank Almighty Allah for keeping us alive and for the successful completion of this year’s Hajj,” one of the pilgrims said shortly after disembarking. “We also appreciate Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, for the good treatment we received in Saudi Arabia. His concern for our welfare made the journey comfortable for us.”
A delegation of the Kebbi State Government and the Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board received the pilgrims at the airport alongside other officials. The delegation praised the coordination between the state government, airline operators, and Saudi authorities that ensured a smooth return.
“We give glory to God for the safe arrival of our first flight,” a government delegation official said. “The state government, under Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, provided all necessary support for our pilgrims. We also thank our officials who assisted the pilgrims at every stage they needed help. We remain committed to ensuring the welfare of all Kebbi pilgrims until the last flight returns.”
Airport officials confirmed that immigration and health clearance procedures were concluded on arrival, while relatives and well-wishers gathered to welcome the pilgrims home. The Kebbi State Pilgrims Welfare Board said subsequent flights are expected in the coming days as the airlift of returning pilgrims continues.
Tags
2026 Hajj