Gov. Yusuf Warns Pilgrims Against Vices As Kano Airlifts First Hajj Batch

Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, has advised pilgrims from the state to shun all forms of vices and conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors during the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

The governor gave the warning while addressing the first batch of 560 pilgrims set for airlift to the holy land.

According to a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, Yusuf urged the pilgrims to be God-fearing and uphold the values and image of Kano State throughout their stay, expressing confidence that they would maintain discipline and avoid acts capable of tarnishing the state’s reputation.

“We believe our pilgrims are responsible and will not engage in any shameful act,” the governor said.

He disclosed that the state government had made adequate arrangements for the welfare of the pilgrims, including the deployment of a medical team and provision of healthcare services to attend to any emergencies during the pilgrimage.

“Our administration has done everything necessary to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj exercise, particularly in the area of healthcare,” he added, noting that his deputy, Murtala Sule Garo, had earlier briefed the pilgrims on the preparations.

The governor also announced the appointment of the Emir of Gaya, Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as Amirul Hajj for the 2026 exercise, with the Emir of Karaye, Muhammad Muhammad Maharaz, as his deputy.

Earlier, the director-general of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abubakar Matawalle, commended the state government for its support, assuring that all arrangements had been put in place for a hitch-free operation.

He said the board had provided basic items such as soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes to the 560 pilgrims in the first batch to ease their immediate needs upon arrival.

Governor Yusuf, alongside his deputy, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, the Amirul Hajj and other government officials, later saw off the pilgrims and prayed for their safe journey and successful completion of the pilgrimage.