Gombe Muslim Pilgrims Board Commences Mandatory Medical Screening for 2026 Hajj
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
As part of early-stage operational readiness for the 2026 Hajj, the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced a mandatory medical screening exercise for all intending pilgrims from the state.
The exercise was formally launched under the leadership of the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, who stated that the initiative is a non-negotiable prerequisite for participation in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and a critical requirement for Hajj visa processing.
According to Alhaji Hassan, the screening is designed to medically certify all prospective pilgrims and ensure their fitness for the physically demanding spiritual journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
He emphasized that compliance is compulsory, warning that any pilgrim who fails to undergo the screening will be automatically disqualified from the 2026 Hajj exercise, in line with directives issued by Saudi Arabian authorities.
He further urged intending pilgrims to cooperate fully with medical personnel to achieve optimal outcomes and ensure a smooth and compliant Hajj operation.
Speaking at the commencement of the exercise, the Medical Director of Gombe Specialist Hospital, Dr. Sambo Dawa, underscored the public health significance of the screening, noting that it is aimed at safeguarding the health, safety, and overall wellbeing of pilgrims throughout the Hajj period.
Dr. Dawa explained that the results of the screening would provide accurate health profiles of pilgrims, enabling effective medical management and risk mitigation before and during the pilgrimage, thereby supporting a seamless and successful Hajj operation.
The medical screening covers key health assessments, including tests for Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis (TB), Full Blood Count (FBC), and pregnancy tests for female pilgrims, among other standard evaluations.
The exercise is currently ongoing at the Gombe Specialist Hospital and is conducted daily from 8:00 a.m. All intending pilgrims are advised to present themselves promptly to avoid exclusion from the 2026 Hajj programme.
