By Shamsu Bello Sani & Aliyu Inuwa Mansur

Kano State Government has increased the number of state officials assigned to serve the needs of the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia to ensure that no one is left unattended in terms of guidance, healthcare, and general support.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf announced this on Sunday during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Hajj training sessions in Kano.

“We have mobilized dedicated teams to cater for the needs of our pilgrims, from airport to accommodation, and throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia. Our goal is to make this year’s pilgrimage the smoothest and safest in Kano’s history,” he said.

The governor announced that he would lead the state delegation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj exercise.

Read Also:2025 Hajj: Preserve pride, dignity of Nigeria in Saudi Arabia – Shettima tells Pilgrims

He emphasized that performing Hajj is not just a religious journey, but an act of worship that requires dignity, discipline, and devotion.

“This is not a mere journey; it is an act of worship. I will personally lead the Kano pilgrims to ensure a smooth, coordinated, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience,” the Governor stated.

He warned against behaviors that can tarnish the image of the state, urging the pilgrims, particularly the youth and women—to conduct themselves with modesty, respect, and restraint throughout their stay in the holy land.

“To our youth, I urge you to avoid any act that could bring dishonor or disaster to our state. As for our women, remember that Kano women are known for their decency. Represent us with pride, respect yourselves, and uphold the dignity of our culture and religion,” he said.

Governor Yusuf also cautioned against the use of drugs and immoral behavior during the pilgrimage, noting that such acts contradict the sanctity of Hajj and the teachings of Islam.

On his part,  Chairman, Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Lamin Rabi’u Danbappa, said that a total of 3,335 intending pilgrims from the state are scheduled to participate in the 2025 Hajj.

He said the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has so far issued 2,988 visas for Kano pilgrims, while 347 are still pending.

“The leadership of NAHCON has assured us that the remaining visas will be ready between today and tomorrow,” he said.

Alhaji Danbappa also disclosed that the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has paid a total of N24.5 billion to NAHCON for the airlift and welfare of the intending pilgrims.

He further stated that the Hajj operations will officially begin in the state on Tuesday, May 13, with the first flight transporting 400 pilgrims from Tudun Wada, Doguwa, Bebeji, Garun Mallam, and Rimin Gado local government areas.

He urged all pilgrims to adhere strictly to the guidelines set by both Nigerian and Saudi Arabian authorities to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage.