By Kamilu Lawal, Katsina
The first flight of intending pilgrims from Katsina State has departed for Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise, with 411 pilgrims airlifted from the state on Monday.
The pilgrims, drawn from Bakori, Ɗanja, Sabuwa, Ɗandume and Funtua Local Government Areas, departed the Umar Musa Yar’Adua International Airport at about 2:52 p.m.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruq Lawal, charged the intending pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the state throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Delivering the message on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, the Deputy Governor urged the pilgrims to remain focused on the spiritual obligations of Hajj and pray for sustained peace and security in communities affected by insecurity across the state.
The airlift marks the commencement of the 2026 Hajj operations for intending pilgrims from Katsina State.
