Edo Hajj Board Urges Pilgrims to Comply with Luggage Regulations
By Abdulmumin Aliu
The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has called on pilgrims from the state currently in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to strictly comply with approved luggage regulations as preparations intensify for their return to Nigeria following the successful completion of the 2026 Hajj exercise.
The Chairman of the Board, Mallam Musah Muhammad Uduimoh, and the Executive Secretary, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir, made the appeal during separate interactions with Edo pilgrims in Makkah, emphasizing the need for full adherence to airline and National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) baggage guidelines to ensure a smooth and hitch-free return journey.
The Board noted that the return airlift of Nigerian pilgrims is already underway, with pilgrims from several states, including Nasarawa, Kebbi, Ogun, Kogi, Jigawa, Osun, and Gombe, having commenced their journey back to Nigeria.
According to the Board leadership, each pilgrim is entitled to two checked-in bags weighing a maximum of 23 kilograms each, in addition to one hand luggage not exceeding 8 kilograms.
They stressed that multiple hand luggage items would not be permitted and urged pilgrims to strictly observe the approved baggage limits.
The officials further disclosed that luggage screening would be conducted 48 hours before the scheduled departure of pilgrims. They explained that compliance with the screening process and baggage regulations would facilitate timely clearance, efficient handling of luggage, and quicker retrieval upon arrival in Nigeria.
Pilgrims were specifically warned against packing Zamzam water or other prohibited items in their luggage, as such items would be confiscated during screening.
The Board cautioned that violations could result in unnecessary delays and expose luggage to tampering during inspection.
Among the prohibited items highlighted are flammable materials, lighter fluid, lithium batteries and power banks packed in checked baggage, aerosols, excessive quantities of liquids, and sharp objects carried in hand luggage.
The Chairman and Executive Secretary urged all pilgrims to cooperate fully with officials responsible for the screening exercise and to adhere strictly to directives issued by the Board, airline operators, and relevant Saudi and Nigerian authorities.
They commended Edo pilgrims for their exemplary conduct, discipline, and cooperation throughout the Hajj exercise and prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, protection, and safe return of all pilgrims to Nigeria.
