The 2022 Niger Amiru Hajj, the Emir of Kontagora, Alhaji Muazu Barau, has charged intending pilgrims from the state to be law abiding and be good ambassadors in the holy land.
Muazu, gave the charge on Friday while inaugurating the first flight of the state pilgrims at Umar Faruk Bahago Hajj Camp in Bosso Local Government Area of the state.
He advised the pilgrims to be cautious of people in their dealings, to avoid bad company and desist from taking all prohibited items and illicit drugs, citing the scenario of a Kano girl involved in an unfortunate set-up drug related issue.
The Amirul Hajj (Leader of delegation), while wishing the pilgrims an acceptable Hajj, urged them to use the sacred period to pray to Almighty Allah for peaceful existence and hitch-free 2023 general elections.
No fewer than 560 intending pilgrims drawn from Munya, Mashegu, Chanchaga, Kontagora and Magama Local Government areas.
The first flight, with medical and other officials, were flown to Jedda International Airport aboard Max airline.
Earlier, Gov Abubkar Bello congratulated the intending pilgrims for making it to this year’s exercise which was cancelled since the past two years due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Ahmed Ketsu, the governor warned them against any act capable of tarnishing the good image of the state and the country at large.
He assured them that their welfare would be of paramount importance, considering the calibre of persons leading the state government delegation.
Executive Secretary, Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Umar Maku, said that all the intending pilgrims would be transported from Minna International Airport to Jedda.
He said that all the pilgrims must pass through mandatory screening by the board.
Maki warned them against drug trafficking and other prohibited items to the holy land.
He also urged them to pray for Niger state for God’s intervention in the current security issues in the state and the country in general.
