The Kebbi state Amirul Hajj and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammadu Mera, Monday, said the state government has taken possession of passports and visas of pilgrims in readiness for their departure to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 hajj.
A total of 3,800 intending pilgrims from the state have fully paid their fares for the spiritual journey.
Alhaji Mera stated this during an inaugural meeting between members of the government delegation and officials of the Kebbi Pilgrims Welfare Agency, in Birnin Kebbi.
The monarch affirmed that the batch of pilgrims has been scheduled to depart the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, on the 9th of May, after which subsequent airlift would follow progressively.
“All arrangements have been concluded for the evacuation of pilgrims that will proceed without break until conclusion.
“Pilgrims will receive their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in cash (Saudi Riyal) under present system beginning with this hajj.
“The objective is to curtail sharp practices and shortchanging of pilgrims in the course of currency exchange, here and in Saudiyya.
“The comfort of pilgrims is of paramount importance to the government and necessary accommodation has been secured for them in the Holy Land,” the emir said.