Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has charged intending Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia to be worthy ambassadors and represent good image of the state while in the Holy land.
The Governor stated this while flagging off the 2016 Hajj exercise shortly before the first batch of the intending pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia at Kaduna Airport Tuesday. He said that the problems associated with Hajj operations particularly in Kaduna would soon be a thing of the past.
The governor added that, already measures have been put in place to improve the management of Hajj affairs in the state with a view to strengthening and improving the operations of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Governor El-Rufai, represented by his deputy, Arc. Yusuf Bala Barnabas said, “I will like to say congratulations to you all for being a part of the Muslims that will have the privilege alongside other Muslims from all over the world to perform this years’ Hajj.
“The Prophet of Islam, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was even reported to have said that, Hajj is compulsory (on those that are able) at least once in their life time and whoever repeats Hajj, has done a commendable act.
“So once again, I say, congratulations. Hajj operations in Nigeria have evolved over the years, with every year springing different surprises and challenges for us to deal with.
“Kaduna State is not immune to these challenges, but I can assure you that the problems associated with Hajj operations particularly in Kaduna will soon be a thing of the past.
“We have already put in place so many measures to improve the management of Hajj affairs in the state with a view to strengthening and improving the operations of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board.
“I will like to use this opportunity to call on you all to respect the rules and regulations while in the Holy Land and be good ambassadors not only for Kaduna State but Nigeria. Please, as you offer prayers for yourselves, remember to pray for Kaduna State and Nigeria, pray that we will continue to live in peace.Pray that Kaduna State and Nigeria will experience progress and development that will last in our generation and for future generations.
“As I flag off the airlift of the first batch of Hajj Pilgrims, I will like to appreciate the entire Kaduna State Hajj officials, for their efforts and dedication towards ensuring a successful Hajj operation.
“As you all embark on this divine journey, I wish you all a safe trip to and from the Holy Land. Amin,” the governor said.
A total of 410 intending pilgrims were airlifted out of 5,649 that will perform the Hajj this year from the state.
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