The first batch of 560 Nigerian pilgrims from Nasarawa State were transported to Saudi Arabia yesterday for the 2023 Hajj exercise.
The pilgrims departed the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, aboard the inaugural flight operated by a Max Air, shortly after the official flag off of 2023 Hajj operation by President Muhammadu Buhari at the pilgrims terminal of the Airport.
President Buhari, who was represented at the inaugural flight launch ceremony by the minister of state for foreign affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for the wonderful job they were doing, which culminated in the successful preparations for Hajj 2023.
He appealed to Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan-led commission not to relent, but to ensure that the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims to this year’s Hajj was given utmost priority.
The president also charged all officers to take their responsibilities with all seriousness, adding that everything required by NAHCON has been provided by the government and that there was, therefore, no room for excuses.
He advised the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Nigeria and see themselves as the representatives of Nigeria and Islam.
He also urged them to pray for peace and development of the country while in the holy land.
Speaking earlier, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, who was represented by the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage, wished the intending pilgrims successful hajj and urged them to be good ambassadors of the country.
He equally thanked NAHCON for giving Nasarawa State the opportunity to be the first to fly to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj exercise.
