The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board on Wednesday confirmed that the first batch of pilgrims will be airlifted on May 13 for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Director-General, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim-Matawalle, disclosed this during a visit to the Kano State House of Assembly, following the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s official airlift timetable.
Ibrahim-Matawalle, in a statement by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Sulaiman Dederi, said all preparations for intending pilgrims had been completed.
“All necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and hitch-free operation for our pilgrims.
“It is our tradition to brief the Assembly, particularly the House Committee on Hajj, before airlift operations to promote transparency and accountability.
“We are fully prepared for the 2026 Hajj airlift. All logistics and administrative processes have been finalised to ensure pilgrims’ comfort and safety,” Ibrahim-Matawalle said.
The Director-General said he would leverage his experience and introduce new strategies to guarantee a successful Hajj exercise for Kano State pilgrims.
Deputy Speaker and Committee member, Mr Muhammad Bello, congratulated Ibrahim-Matawalle on his appointment, describing it as well deserved.
He pledged the Assembly’s continued support and collaboration with the board to ensure a seamless Hajj operation.
Ibrahim-Matawalle also visited the Protocol Section of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kano Office, to strengthen inter-agency collaboration for the exercise.
He emphasised the need for cordial and effective working relationships among all authorities and security agencies involved in Hajj operations.
Responding, Head of Protocol, Alhaji Nu’uman Nuhu-Bamalli, commended the visit and assured the board of the ministry’s support, promising positive outcomes.
Ibrahim-Matawalle reaffirmed the board’s commitment to ensure welfare, safety, and spiritual fulfilment for all intending pilgrims from Kano State during the 2026 Hajj.