The first batch of intending pilgrims from Jigawa State has departed the Nuhu Muhammadu Sunusi International Airport to Saudi Arabia.
The 410 pilgrims, from the 16 local government areas of the state left the country at 11:00am.
The Director General of the board, Ahmed Umar Labbo disclosed that the board had registered a total of 1,293 intending pilgrims for this year’s Hajj exercise, noting that the other intending pilgrims will be airlifted in two more batches of 550 pilgrims each.
He urged the pilgrims to be good ambassadors and abide by the regulations of the holly land.