The Kano State Government has successfully transported the first batch of 486 intending pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2016 Hajj.
They departed from the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano yesterday night.. The plane used was a Max Air Boeing 747 aircraft.
The pilgrims were from six Local Government Areas of the state which are: Ajingi, Warawa, Garko, Gaya, Sumaila and Wudil.
Gov. Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano State, addressed the pilgrims before their departure saying that they (the pilgrims) should avoid acts capable of denting the image of the state and the country.
He also advised them against taking any prohibited items to the Holy land as the Saudi authorities would not hesitate to prosecute anyone who violate its laws.
He also urged them to ensure strict adherence to the laws of Saudi Arabia while in the Holy land.
Ganduje stressed the need for them to pray for the state and the country and also quite handily advised them against unnecessary spending.
“Let me use this opportunity to call on you to pray for our country to overcome the current economic crisis bedevilling the nation.” he said.
NAN reports that a total of 5, 880 intending pilgrims from Kano state are expected to perform the 2016 hajj.