Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board releases date for Airlift of Pilgrims for 2026 Hajj Exercise

By Aliyu Adamu Faggo

Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has fixed May 7th, 2026, as the date for the airlift of intending pilgrims from the state for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Dr Imam Abdurrahman Ibrahim Idris, disclosed this during a meeting with journalists covering 2026 in his office.

He said the engagement was part of efforts to strengthen operational planning and ensure strict compliance with airport regulations, following concerns raised over lapses recorded during last year’s exercise.

Dr Imam Idris also announced the appointment of Alhaji Shehu Yahaya Jalam as Chairman of the Information and Publicity Committee, who will coordinate media activities for the exercise.

He noted that the committee, comprising journalists in the state, will work to address operational challenges, particularly those previously highlighted by airport authorities.

According to him, intending pilgrims from Plateau State are scheduled to commence their airlift on May 5th and 6th from the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport, Bauchi, while Bauchi pilgrims would be airlifted on May 7th alongside their Plateau counterparts.

The Executive Secretary cautioned pilgrims to safeguard their e-passports, citing an incident during the previous Hajj in which a pilgrim was returned to Nigeria after arrival in Saudi Arabia due to lack of required travel document.

He further disclosed that Bauchi State has two thousand and ninety intending pilgrims, who will be transported in five flights to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.

Dr Abdurrahman urged journalists to adhere strictly to airport regulations to ensure a smooth operation.