By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

Governor Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu) of Kebbi State has urged intending pilgrims for this year’s Hajj from the state, to fervently pray for the success of the nation's leaders for sustainable development and peaceful co-existence in the country.

He gave the advice during a farewell visit to the first batch of pilgrims at the Hajj camp in Birnin Kebbi on Saturday 10th June, 2023.

He also advised them to be of good conduct and character throughout the period of the pilgrimage.

The Governor noted that pilgrims from the state have been known to be law-abiding and appealed to them to uphold such virtues.

"This is the first time the incumbent government has organized Hajj exercise and has tried its best to ensure that the airlift operation was carried out from Birnin Kebbi Airport but providence has destined that the exercise would take off from Sokoto Airport," the Governor said in a statement issued by Yahaya Sarki, his Special Adviser on Media.

He advised the pilgrims to regard such development as an act of God, saying that he would also perform the Hajj this year together with them, to enable him examine areas in need for improvement.

“All arrangements for the comfort and welfare of the pilgrims have been finalized in Saudi Arabia, only waiting for their arrival to the holy land,” he assured.

In his remark, this year's Kebbi State Amirul Hajj, a former Minister of Internal Affairs, General Muhammadu Magoro, informed the Governor that everything has been put in place to ensure smooth conduct of Hajj operation.

General Magoro announced that 18 medical doctors and an appropriate number of Medical Staff would accompany the pilgrims to Saudi Arabia to cater for their health needs.

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