The first group of 560 pilgrims from Kwara State who took part in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia returned safely to Ilorin on Sunday after successfully completing the religious obligation.
The pilgrims arrived at the Babatunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, aboard a Max Air aircraft at approximately 12:23 p.m., accompanied by three officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria.
According to media reports, the information was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Press Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Mrs Jumoke Jimoh.
Speaking shortly after their arrival, the pilgrims thanked Almighty Allah for granting them a successful and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
The Mufashir Agba of Ilorin, Alhaji Uthman Iyanda-Muhammad, popularly known as Sannu-Sheu, described this year’s Hajj exercise as exceptional and commended the efforts of the Kwara State Government toward the welfare of pilgrims.
He said, “This year’s Hajj was exceptional. The provision of local meals for pilgrims was a commendable initiative that made the exercise more convenient and memorable for many of us.”
Also speaking, one of the pilgrims, Alhaji AbdulGaniy Naallah Pako, applauded the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board for the arrangements made throughout the pilgrimage.
“The accommodation, feeding, and transportation arrangements were seamless. We appreciate the Board for ensuring that pilgrims were well taken care of during the exercise,” Pako stated.
A female pilgrim, Alhaja Saka Rasheedat, also appreciated the state government for ensuring a successful and hitch-free Hajj operation, while relatives, friends, and well-wishers who gathered at the airport rejoiced over the safe return of their loved ones.
Meanwhile, the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board disclosed that the second batch of pilgrims is scheduled to arrive on Tuesday, assuring that adequate arrangements have been finalized to guarantee their smooth reception and return to their respective homes.
