First Batch of Kwara Pilgrims Returns from 2026 Hajj

The first batch of Kwara pilgrims returned from the 2026 Hajj, landing in Ilorin at 12:25 PM Nigerian time. The return was facilitated by MaxAir, and the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board received the pilgrims, who described the completion of their sacred rites.

Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, the Executive Secretary of the board, confirmed that logistics were fully in place for a smooth disembarkation process. He also promised that the second batch of pilgrims would arrive in Ilorin on Tuesday, with subsequent batches expected on Friday and Sunday of the following week.

Prof. Mashood Mahmud Jimba, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the State Pilgrim Board, commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his support, which contributed to the success of this year's pilgrimage, where a total of 1,714 pilgrims were airlifted from Kwara State.