President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, in Kebbi State, flagged-off the inaugural airlift of 2024 Hajji exercise from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The grand ceremony took place at Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport in Birnin Kebbi with eminent Nigerians in attendance.
The president, who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, asked the pilgrims to pray for peace, unity and progress of the country.
He charged the pilgrims to abide by all rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and urged them to avoid any illicit act capable of affecting the integrity of their hajj.
“Mr President has been committed to this year’s Hajj due to the economic situation, he has also contributed the sum of N90 billion Naira to subsidise this year’s Hajj exercise in order to have a smooth and successful exercise.
“You may recall that this year, we had a major challenge in announcing the final hajj fare for the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
“President Bola Tinubu also works round the clock to control the downward spiral of our local currency to bring relief to our pilgrims and other Nigerians.
“A move that eventually succeeded in lowering the fare. The President approved the release of N90 billion to subsidize the cost of pilgrimage for this year’s hajj.”
Delivering his speech, the Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, said this year’s Hajj signified a sacred journey for thousands of devoted pilgrims who embarked on a spiritual voyage to the Holy Land.
He explained that Hajj is a time to honour tradition that holds great significance for Muslims around the world.
“It is a journey of faith, devotion and unity where believers come together to fulfill one of the five pillars of Islam, the pilgrimage to Mecca is a profound experience that fosters a sense of community, humility and spiritual renewal,” he said.
The governor urged the people to remember the significance of this sacred ritual, adding that Hajji remained a testament to the unity of Muslim Ummah, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences.
“It is a time for reflection, prayer and seeking forgiveness, as well as an opportunity for personal growth and self discovery,” he added.