According to a news report from Voice of Nigeria, the airlifting of the 2024 Hajj pilgrims from Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, has been successfully completed.

The final batch departed from General Tunde Idiagbon International Airport in Ilorin on Saturday at exactly 3:06 am local time, concluding the exercise. Initially scheduled for Thursday, June 6th, 2024, the airlift faced a delay due to technical issues with the designated aircraft.

The inaugural flight from the state took place on May 21st, 2024, transporting over 300 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the ongoing Hajj. Subsequent flights, which also included pilgrims from Ondo and Ekiti States, followed. Notably, the penultimate and last flights were the only departures recorded during the night and dawn among the twelve air transportations.

A total of 3,102 pilgrims travelled to Saudi Arabia via Kwara airspace, all flown by Max Airline. This information was contained in a statement released by Bolaji Aladie, the media aide to the State contingent Leader.

Professor Mashood Jimba, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board, who is also in the holy land, praised the appointment of former Senator, Kwara Central Senatorial District, Dr Ibrahim Oloriegbe, as the Contingent Leader for this year.

He highlighted Oloriegbe’s significant role and influence in their achievements.

Professor Jimba also extended appreciation to the aviation regulatory agencies for their partnership and collaboration, which contributed to the smooth execution of the exercise.

On his part, the State Contingents Leader, Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe, expressed gratitude to Allah for the successful airlifting process, despite encountering some inevitable challenges that were promptly resolved as they arose.

He assured the relatives of the pilgrims that the Board officials and NAHCON executives have taken comprehensive measures to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia without any difficulties.

Dr Oloriegbe called for prayers from the people of Kwara State for continued success in fulfilling their duties during the spiritual journey.

He extended heartfelt wishes for a blissful Eid-el-Adha festival to the Muslim Ummah and a successful outing in the Grand Durbar celebration to the people of Ilorin Emirate.