By Our Correspondent

National News – The Niger State Government has officially commenced the 2026 Hajj airlift as the first batch of 345 intending pilgrims departed Minna for Madinah, Saudi Arabia, late Monday night.

The pilgrims left through the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport aboard a Flynas Airline flight that took off around 10:15 p.m.

The group included 227 male and 118 female pilgrims drawn from Chanchaga and Borgu Local Government Areas.

Governor Mohammed Umaru-Bago addressed the pilgrims before departure, urging them to represent Niger State and Nigeria positively during the holy pilgrimage.

He warned them against accepting items from strangers and advised them to keep their personal belongings safe throughout the journey.

The governor also encouraged the pilgrims to stay hydrated by drinking enough water due to the harsh weather conditions expected in Saudi Arabia.

He further asked them to pray for peace, unity, and stability in Nigeria and specifically remember Niger State and their families during the Hajj exercise.

Speaking during the event, the 2026 Amirul Hajj and Emir of Agaie, Yusuf Nuhu, expressed satisfaction with the preparations made for the pilgrimage operations.

He advised all pilgrims to strictly obey the laws and regulations of Saudi Arabia to ensure a smooth and successful stay in the Holy Land.

Some of the intending pilgrims who spoke after boarding expressed excitement over participating in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

They commended officials for the smooth arrangements and promised to pray for an end to insecurity and other national challenges affecting the country.

Authorities disclosed that Niger State has a total of 2,281 intending pilgrims scheduled for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The pilgrims are expected to be transported to Saudi Arabia through six separate flights in the coming days.