2026 Hajj Update: 2nd Batch of Gombe Pilgrims Arrives Jeddah, Heads to Madinah
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The second batch of intending pilgrims from Gombe State has arrived safely in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as part of the ongoing airlift for the 2026 Hajj exercise.
In an update issued on May 6, 2026, the Information Officer of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Mohammed Gabari Mohammed, confirmed that the pilgrims, who departed Nigeria late on May 5, touched down at King Abdulaziz International Airport at approximately 4:10 a.m.
After their arrival, the pilgrims proceeded to the holy city of Madinah, where they will begin the spiritual phase of their pilgrimage.
He noted that all Gombe State pilgrims are currently in Madinah, in good health and high spirits.
The airlift operation from the state was conducted in two batches. The first flight conveyed about 412 pilgrims, while the second and final batch transported approximately 550 pilgrims, bringing the total number of pilgrims from the state to over 961.
Mohammed described the exercise as smooth and well-coordinated, attributing the success to effective planning and collaboration among relevant stakeholders.
He also assured that the Board has made adequate welfare arrangements to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The successful arrival of the second batch effectively concludes the airlift of Gombe State pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj, marking a key milestone in the state’s participation in this year’s pilgrimage.
