(Abdullah Tsoho, DUTSE)
The Jigawa State Pilgrims and Welfare Board has said that it will commence the airlifting of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2016 Hajj from Thursday 18th August.
Board Public Relations Officer Alhaji Ibrahim Hashim Kanya said this while briefing the media on arrangements for the pilgrim airlift.
According to him, a first batch of 500 pilgrims are set to leave Nigeria directly to Saudi Arabia.
He said that, as usual, pilgrims from five local governments of the state – Kaugama, Kazaure, Hadejia, Malam Madori and Guri – will be at the HajjNYSC camp, Dutse today for screening.
Kanya also said that after screening, the pilgrims would be conveyed to Dutse International Airport for airlift by Max Air.
He added that the Board has prepared over 1900 visas for state pilgrims, while all necessary arrangements have already been concluded for the exercise.
“The State Deputy Governor Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan and some directors and officials from the Board had also visited the Hajj camp to ensure it is in good condition for receiving the pilgrims.”
“During the visit, the Deputy Governor expressed satisfaction on the facilities and security provided. He also had a discussion with officials of the Nigerian Air Force who are using the camp for training their new intakes,” the PRO said.
He urged pilgrims from the sending local governments to appear at the camp Wednesday, stating that illicit drugs and other prohibited items are strictly outlawed.