Kwara State to Start 2026 Hajj Airlift on May 6

The Kwara State government is set to begin the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj on May 6, 2026, from the General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin, as disclosed by Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board. The airlift will occur in batches, with the second batch scheduled to depart on May 7 and the third batch on May 9.

Abdulkadir noted that Saudi authorities have introduced identification measures to enhance coordination and safety during the pilgrimage, including the issuance of ID cards containing pilgrim details upon arrival in Medina. Mashood Mahmud Jimba, Chairman of the board, commended Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his unwavering support to ensure a smooth Hajj operation.

He emphasized the importance of logistical arrangements ahead of the pilgrims' arrival in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Abdullateef Kamaldeen, the Grand Khadi of Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, urged pilgrims to uphold righteousness throughout their spiritual journey.