2026 Hajj: Adamawa Screens Out Medically Unfit Pilgrims Ahead of Airlift
By Faiza Musa Adamu
The Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission has commenced strict medical screening of intending pilgrims ahead of the commencement of the 2026 Hajj airlift scheduled for Saturday, as part of efforts to prevent health emergencies during the pilgrimage.
The commission said the enhanced screening exercise ensures that only medically fit pilgrims participate in the spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia.
Speaking during the exercise in Yola, officials of the commission disclosed that the Medical Committee inaugurated by the Acting Executive Chairman of the commission, Malam Abubakar Salihu, had entered the second phase of comprehensive health screening for intending pilgrims.
Officials said the committee will strictly enforce health protocols to safeguard pilgrims throughout the Hajj exercise.
A senior member of the Medical Committee said the screening assesses the physical fitness of pilgrims due to the demanding nature of the Hajj rites.
“The journey to the Holy Land is physically demanding. “Our mandate from the Acting Executive Chairman is clear: we must ensure that only pilgrims fit for the rigorous rites travel,” the official said.
The committee said part of the screening includes verifying that female pilgrims are not pregnant, describing it as a standard safety measure intended to protect both mothers and unborn children from health risks associated with the strenuous activities during Hajj.
The committee also barred pilgrims suffering from terminal illnesses from travelling to prevent possible medical complications during the pilgrimage.
Some intending pilgrims commended the state government for prioritising their welfare through the strict medical checks.
A prospective pilgrim, Amina Yusuf, said the exercise had reassured many participants about their safety.
“When I heard about the detailed medical checks, I felt reassured. It shows that the government cares not just about us going, but about us returning safely to our families,” she said.
The commission noted that the proactive health measures were part of broader efforts to reduce cases of illness and medical emergencies among pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj exercise.
It stated that all necessary logistics had been finalised for the airlift scheduled to commence on Saturday.
