Sokoto Airlifts First Batch of 484 Hajj Pilgrims

The first batch of 484 pilgrims from Sokoto State was airlifted for the Hajj on June 21, 2023, aboard an Umza Airlines aircraft, en route to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The group included 304 males and 180 females from various local government areas, including Tambuwal, Tureta, Wamakko, Sabon Birni, Isa, Shagari, and Dang Shuni.

Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, represented by Deputy Idri Muhammad Gobir, urged the pilgrims to act as good ambassadors for the state, emphasizing the need for discipline, peace, and respect for the laws of Saudi Arabia. Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, the Amirul Hajj and chairman of the Sokoto State Hajj Committee, expressed satisfaction with the preparations for the Hajj, which included logistics for transport, feeding, accommodation, and welfare services.

Sokoto State plans to operate five flights to airlift a total of 2,404 intended pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.