First Batch of Gombe Pilgrims Returns Safely from Saudi Arabia

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First Batch of Gombe Pilgrims Returns Safely from Saudi Arabia

By Aliyu Bala Gerengi, Gombe

The first batch of Gombe State pilgrims—comprising 551 individuals—has safely returned from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the successful completion of the 2025 Hajj exercise.

The return flight landed at Lawanti International Airport, Gombe, at approximately 10:00 a.m. today.

In separate interviews with journalists, the Hajj Officers of Funakaye and Billiri Local Government Areas, Alhaji Adamu Hamma Bajoga and Alhaji Adamu Saleh, described the 2025 pilgrimage as highly successful, praising the seamless coordination and support provided throughout the exercise.

They commended the Gombe State Amirul Hajj team, led by the Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Abdulrahid Abdulkadir, and the Executive Secretary of the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Sa’adu Hassan, for their unwavering commitment, diligence, and leadership.

Also speaking, the Coordinat

or of the State Hajj Induction Committee, Alhaji Maiwada Dahiru, acknowledged the strong cooperation received from both the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the State Pilgrims Welfare Board. He also expressed appreciation for the conduct and discipline exhibited by the pilgrims, which contributed to the success of the entire operation.

Some returning pilgrims, including Alhaji Jalo Ibrahim, Amina Usman, Babayo Ibrahim, and Bilya Yaro Dawakin Tofa of Vision FM Gombe, who was part of the Hajj coverage team, expressed satisfaction with the overall arrangements, particularly accommodation, feeding, and transportation. They lauded the efforts of the officials for maintaining a high standard throughout the spiritual journey.

Meanwhile, a reliable source from the State Hajj Board has confirmed that the second and final batch of Gombe pilgrims is expected to arrive tomorrow, Sunday.