2026 Hajj: Kaduna Chief of Staff Inspects Transit Camp Ahead of Inaugural Flight
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Chief of Staff to the Kaduna State Governor, Malam Sani Kila, on Monday inspected the State Hajj Transit Camp ahead of the inaugural flight for the 2026 Hajj exercise scheduled for Wednesday, May 13.
Kila conducted the inspection alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, Ustaz Abdulrahman Hunain, as the state intensified preparations for the airlift of intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Ibrahim Datti, officials of the agency, led by the Executive Chairman, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, received the delegation during the visit.
The inspection focused on assessing the level of preparedness, facilities, and operational arrangements put in place for the smooth commencement of the Hajj exercise.
Speaking during the visit, Kila expressed satisfaction with the level of readiness at the transit camp, describing the facility as one of the most modern and best-equipped Hajj transit camps in Nigeria.
He said the quality of infrastructure, organization, and services at the camp reflected the Kaduna State Government’s commitment to efficient service delivery and pilgrims’ welfare.
The Chief of Staff also commended Governor Uba Sani for prioritizing the welfare of intending pilgrims and ensuring the provision of resources needed for a successful Hajj operation.
Kila further praised the Executive Chairman of the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, Malam Salihu S. Abubakar, for his administrative efforts and commitment toward improving Hajj operations in the state.
According to him, the improvements recorded at the transit camp demonstrate the government’s determination to provide Kaduna pilgrims with a comfortable and well-organized pilgrimage experience.
The delegation toured accommodation facilities, medical units, registration and documentation centers, feeding areas, security arrangements, and luggage handling sections.
Datti explained that officials of the agency briefed the visitors on measures already put in place to ensure seamless operations during the airlift exercise.
Kila stressed the need for discipline, professionalism, and proper coordination among officials and service providers involved in the Hajj operation.
He added that Kaduna State remained committed to maintaining high standards in pilgrims’ welfare and Hajj administration.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs, Ustaz Abdulrahman Hunain, commended the level of organization at the transit camp and urged intending pilgrims to cooperate with officials and adhere strictly to guidelines throughout the exercise.
He also encouraged the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and progress in Kaduna State and Nigeria during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The visit formed part of the Kaduna State Government’s final readiness assessment ahead of the commencement of airlift operations for hundreds of intending pilgrims travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Officials at the transit camp continued final preparations as intending pilgrims expressed optimism over the improved facilities and arrangements provided by the state government.
