The Kwara Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that intending pilgrims from the state will now depart for the Holy Land between May 6 and 8.
The Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji AbdulKadri Abdulsalam, disclosed this during an enlightenment programme held for pilgrims on Sunday in Ilorin.
“Earlier, we announced departures for May 6, 7 and 9, but the airline has adjusted the schedule.
“Pilgrims will now depart on May 6, 7 and 8 consecutively, with two flights on the first day and one flight each on the second and third days,” he said.
The Executive Secretary described the exercise as essential, stressing that beyond collecting Hajj fares, the board must adequately prepare pilgrims for the spiritual journey.
“It would be unfair for us to collect N7.7 million from a pilgrim without teaching the person how to perform Hajj.
“We believe we have a duty before Allah to properly guide the pilgrims,” Abdulsalam said.
He noted that the orientation would include lessons on the use of ihram, how to perform tawaf and sa’i, and other rites pilgrims are expected to carry out upon arrival in Makkah.
According to him, a model of the Kaaba has been provided to enable practical demonstrations, while the Grand Khadi of Kwara will supervise the exercise.
Abdulsalam added that vaccination of pilgrims would begin on April 27, while uniforms and travel bags have been prepared for distribution.
He stated that the immunisation exercise is expected to be concluded within the week, depending on turnout, noting that health officials will be available from 9 a.m. daily.
He further advised intending pilgrims to remain patient throughout the Hajj process, describing patience as key to a successful pilgrimage.
“Hajj is not a luxury or a jamboree. It requires patience and endurance.
“There may be challenges along the way, but pilgrims must take everything in good faith as they perform one of the pillars of Islam,” he added.
