The Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Faruk Lawal Jobe, on Monday bade farewell to the first batch of pilgrims from the state departing for the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The first flight conveyed 411 intending pilgrims drawn from Bakori, Danja, Sabuwa, Dandume and Funtua local government areas.
The pilgrims departed from Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport at about 2:52 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, the deputy governor urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Katsina State throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
He also encouraged them to concentrate fully on the spiritual rites of Hajj and to pray for lasting peace in Katsina State, particularly in communities facing security challenges.
The deputy governor was accompanied to the airport by the Amirul Hajj, Ahmed Usman El-Marzuq, and the Chairman of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Kabir Bature.
Other government officials and members of the Hajj delegation were also present at the farewell ceremony.
