The Adamawa Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, have airlifted first batch of 475 intending pilgrims from the state to Saudi Arabia for 2023 Hajj exercise.
The pilgrims who departed Yola, International Airport Yola yesterday at 8:00 pm were from Madagali, Michika and Girei local government areas of the state.
Malam Abubakar Salihu, Executive Secretary of the Board, said, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri had provided accomodations, which served as temporary camp for the intending pilgrims at Meridian Hotel and three Coaster buses to convey them to the airport before being airlifted to the holyland.
Salihu, assured that the approved airline, Aero contractors will convey all the pilgrims in good time.
Also, each pilgrim received $700 as Basic Traveling Allowance BTA against the usual $800 as a result of late increase of airfare.
Addressing the pilgrims, Dr AbdulHafiz Inuwa, leader of state government delegation, assured of the delegation’s readiness to monitor and provide needed support to all the intending pilgrims from the state.
Inuwa urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors during and after the exercise.
Mallah Shehu Halilu, one of the pilgrims from Girei local government area, lauded the timely arrangements and airlift of pilgrims from the state.
2,574 pilgrims are expected to perform 2023 Hajj exercise from the state.
