The last batch of intending Nigerian pilgrims for the 2019 pilgrimage has departed Abuja on Flynas XY5821 to Saudi Arabia with 301 pilgrims on Tuesday.
According to the Command and Control Centre of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) in Makkah, the figure comprises 17 intending pilgrims from FCT, including 14 males and three females, Sokoto with 11 of eight males and three females, while Zamfara has 22 made up of 10 males and 12 females.
The commission also said that Kaduna State had 55 intending pilgrims, made up of 42 males and 13 females; Anambra with 25 intending pilgrims of 17 males and 8 females; Abia eight comprising six males and two females, while Cross River had 42 consisting of 33 males and nine females.
The centre also said that Delta had 28 intending pilgrims, made up of 17 males and 11 females, while Ebonyi has 74 comprising 53 males and 21 females.
Besides, Enugu State, it said, had 19 intending pilgrims of 15 males and four females and 86 officials.
The centre also disclosed that a total of 44,450 intending pilgrims were transported to Saudi Arabia in 93 flights.
“This marks the end of the phase one airlift operation for 2019 Hajj. Thanks to Allah and all of you for your support and prayers,” the commission said.
Meanwhile, installation of facilities at the Muna Camp to make it comfortable for the pilgrims ahead Aug. 10 Arafat, continued on Tuesday.
Pilgrims from all corners of the world will converge at the camp on Friday for three days, for the critical segment of their religious rites toward Arafat day.
This is in addition to the introduction of electronic system into the performance of Hajj at Arafat to monitor movement of pilgrims, check stampede and ensure their safety.
The efforts, according to the representative of NAHCON in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr Tanko Aliyu, is to ensure that pilgrims get value for their money and make them attain an acceptable pilgrimage.
He urged officials of the commission and those of the State Pilgrims Welfare Boards to educate the pilgrims on the electronic system, to ensure compliance.
