The Vice-President, Senator Kashim Shettima, marked a significant moment in the 2024 Hajj journey by inaugurating the first flight of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia from Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi.
Shettima emphasized the spiritual significance of the Hajj for Muslims and acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in overcoming the challenges to finalize this year’s Hajj fares. He reminded everyone of the previous year’s struggle to determine the final Hajj fares for the 2024 pilgrims. Despite the difficulties, Tinubu managed to stabilize the rapidly declining national currency, providing relief to Nigerians.
This successful intervention led to the establishment of a reasonable fare. Furthermore, President Tinubu approved a subsidy of N90 billion to offset the cost of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. Shettima encouraged the pilgrims to continue praying for the success of the administration and the peace and progress of Nigeria, their beloved homeland.
He also expressed his belief that collective prayers in the holy lands of Mecca and Medina could make Nigeria a better place. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, praised President Tinubu, the Vice-President, the Kebbi State Government, and NAHCON for making the inaugural flight possible. He also appreciated the efforts of the former Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Saidu Nasamu Dakingari, in constructing the Birnin Kebbi international airport.
The Sultan urged Nigerian pilgrims to maintain their discipline, a quality they have been known for over the years, thanks to their good leadership. He reminded them to pray for Nigeria and its leaders while in the holy land, emphasizing that their prayers are crucial during this period.
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, expressed his delight at hosting the inaugural flight in Kebbi. He revealed that his administration had worked diligently to address the challenges faced by the state’s Pilgrims agency. He highlighted the construction of an aviation fuel depot costing N300 million and the engagement of a professor and aviation consultant for N53 million to study and maintain the airport facilities. Additionally, infrastructure facilities worth N900 million were provided at the Hajj camp.
Finally, the National Chairman of NAHCON, Alhaji Jalal Ahmad Arabi, commended the Federal Government, Kebbi State Government, and other stakeholders for making the first airlift of the pilgrims possible in Kebbi State. He advised the Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia to represent their country well, follow instructions, obey Saudi laws, avoid prohibited items, and safeguard their valuable properties.
