2024 Hajj: Last batch of Kwara pilgrims arrives in Ilorin

The 2024 Hajj operation in Kwara ended on Tuesday in Ilorin with the arrival of the last batch of a contingent of 312 pilgrims from the state.

It was reported that the last batch, including the Amirul-Hajj, Sen. Yahaya Oloriegbe, and other state officials, arrived at the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon International Airport.

Their arrival was earlier than the initial schedule of Thursday.

During a brief conversation with journalists at the airport’s arrival wing, Oloriegbe expressed gratitude to the God for the successful completion of the entire exercise.

He also acknowledged the unwavering support received from Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, saying it contributed a lot to the smoothness of the entire process.

“I also recognise the cooperation of the Kwara Pilgrims Welfare Board and the officials from the national body and other aviation agencies in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia,” Oloriegbe added.

He advised those who were part of the exercise to make the most of the spiritual enlightenment provided by the journey.

”They should also refrain from engaging in activities that will compromise their Hajj, or question the integrity of their new status.”

Prof. Mashood Jimba, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Board, expressed his appreciation of the State Governor for selecting Sen. Oloriegbe as the Amirul-Hajj.

He lauded the former lawmaker’s outstanding leadership as a significant asset for the State Board in facilitating the pilgrims’ operations.

Jimba assured that the board would continue to capitalise on this momentum, and apply the lessons learnt in preparation for future operations.

“It is worth noting that more than 3,000 pilgrims utilised Kwara airspace for the pilgrimage this year,” he said.