The first group of Jigawa State pilgrims who journeyed to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj exercise has returned safely to Nigeria.
The pilgrims, numbering 549, arrived at the Nuhu Muhammad Sanusi International Airport in Dutse, the state capital, on Saturday aboard a Max Air flight.
The Director General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ahmed Labbo, expressed gratitude for the safe return of the pilgrims.
Addressing journalists shortly after their arrival, he said, “We thank Allah for bringing our pilgrims back home safely. It has been a collective effort, and we are happy to have achieved this milestone.”
Labbo noted that the board worked tirelessly to ensure that the return journey was smooth and well-coordinated.
“The successful return of these pilgrims is a result of our team’s dedication, as well as the support from the state government and the National Hajj Commission,” he added.
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He also confirmed that the second and final batch of 381 Jigawa pilgrims still in Saudi Arabia is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Monday.
Pilgrims who spoke upon arrival were full of appreciation to the authorities for the care and coordination during the pilgrimage. Aisha Sani, from Birnin Kudu Local Government Area, said, “We are truly grateful to Allah and to the state government for making our pilgrimage successful and comfortable.”
Another pilgrim, Abdulrahman Muhammad from Gumel Local Government Area, shared similar sentiments: “The support and concern shown to us during our stay in the Holy Land were commendable. We thank the government and the Hajj Commission.”
Fatima Aliyu, who hails from Dutse Local Government Area, applauded the organisation of the board, saying, “Everything was well planned and executed. The board did a fantastic job.”
The state government, according to the DG, has promised continued support for future pilgrimages and assured that returning pilgrims will be assisted in reintegrating smoothly into their communities.
The 2025 Hajj marks another successful year of pilgrimage coordination by Jigawa State authorities, with focus on safety, care, and spiritual fulfilment for its Muslim faithful.
