Kano engages airline for swift return of pilgrims from Saudi Arabia

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has opened discussions with the management of Max Air to ensure the swift and orderly return of Kano pilgrims from Saudi Arabia following the completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The governor disclosed this during a meeting with Kano pilgrims and Hajj officials in Makkah on Wednesday, as part of his Sallah visit aimed at assessing their welfare and extending festive greetings.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Head of the Media Team, Hajj Operation 2026, Mustapha Muhammad and made available to Arewa PUNCH.

According to the statement, Yusuf said he was personally engaging the Chief Executive Officer of Max Air, Alhaji Dahiru Barau Mangal, to guarantee a smooth evacuation of pilgrims back to Nigeria.

“I am personally discussing with the management of the airline to ensure that all our pilgrims return home safely and on time. We understand the importance of reuniting them with their families after completing this important religious obligation,” the governor said.

He expressed confidence that the airline would intensify arrangements to ensure a hitch-free return operation.

The governor also inspected facilities provided for pilgrims, including a catering service, to assess the quality of meals and other welfare arrangements.

“I deliberately visited the catering service provider because I wanted to see things for myself. I have personally tested the food being served, and it is the same food I have been eating since my arrival here. It is the same food you are being served,” he said.

Yusuf assured the pilgrims that his administration remained committed to their welfare and comfort throughout the pilgrimage exercise.

Earlier, the Amirul Hajj and Emir of Gaya, Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, said the pilgrims had successfully completed their Hajj rites and commended the arrangements put in place by the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board.

He noted that the provision of feeding, transportation, and a 200 Saudi Riyal support package to each pilgrim contributed significantly to the success of the exercise.

“The pilgrims are happy with the arrangements made for them. The provision of feeding, transportation and the 200 Saudi Riyal support given to each pilgrim have greatly contributed to the success of this year’s operation,” he said.

Similarly, the Deputy Amirul Hajj and Emir of Karaye, Muhammad Muhammad Maharaz, praised the governor for personally visiting the pilgrims and monitoring their welfare.

“We appreciate Your Excellency for taking the time to come here and interact with the pilgrims. This visit has boosted their morale and demonstrated your concern for their wellbeing,” he said.

The Director-General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, briefed the governor on the progress of the Hajj operations and challenges encountered during the exercise.

He said efforts were underway to resolve issues relating to pilgrims’ identification documents and ensure that all returnees come back with their luggage intact.

Matawalle expressed optimism that the return airlift exercise would proceed smoothly without disruption.

Governor Yusuf is expected to return to Kano after concluding his engagements in Saudi Arabia.

Arewa PUNCH reports that the annual Hajj operation remains one of the most sensitive logistical exercises for state governments in Nigeria, involving the coordination of airlift arrangements, accommodation, feeding, and welfare support for thousands of pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

Kano State, which consistently records one of the highest numbers of pilgrims in the country, has in recent years intensified partnerships with private airlines and service providers to improve efficiency and reduce delays in airlift operations.

Officials say such engagements are aimed at avoiding the recurrent challenges of congestion, delayed return flights, and luggage handling issues that often affect pilgrims after the completion of the pilgrimage.