Hajj 2025: Final Batch of 398 Bauchi Pilgrims Returns Home Safely
By Abdulwahab Muhammad, Bauchi
The final batch of 398 pilgrims from Bauchi State, including the Amirul Hajj delegation led by the Executive Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Imam Abdurrahman Idris, has returned home safely after completing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The contingent, which spent 38 days in the Holy Land, arrived on Tuesday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, aboard a MaxAir flight, to the warm reception of enthusiastic family members and well-wishers.
Speaking to journalists shortly after arrival, Imam Abdurrahman described the 2025 Hajj exercise as one of the smoothest and most successful in the history of Bauchi State. He noted that, despite minor delays in return flights, the entire operation was conducted hitch-free.
"This year's Hajj was a remarkable success. Our pilgrims departed early, performed their rites with ease, and returned safely. It’s the first of its kind in terms of coordination and execution," he said.
While highlighting the achievements, Imam Abdurrahman pointed out that the only challenge faced was related to the limited return flight schedule provided by the operating airline, MaxAir. He appealed to the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) to allocate more return slots in future operations to avoid such delays.
He extended appreciation to the Amirul Hajj, the Emir of Jama’are, Alhaji Nuhu Wabi, and his deputy, Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman, as well as other officials for their exemplary leadership and dedication.
The Executive Secretary also acknowledged the critical role played by the Bauchi State Government, particularly Governor Senator Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad, whose support ensured early visa processing and thorough preparations.
He further commended all stakeholders—staff, medical personnel, religious guides, and volunteers—whose contributions made the Hajj operation a resounding success, praying for Allah’s reward upon them.
Many returning pilgrims also praised the organization of the pilgrimage, describing it as one of the best in recent years.
“Everything was well-planned—
from the training sessions to our welfare in Saudi Arabia. We thank God for a safe and successful pilgrimage,” one of the pilgrims stated.
With this final batch safely home, Bauchi State has officially concluded its 2025 Hajj operation on a high note.
End.