According to a news report from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the 2024 Hajj operation in Kwara State concluded on Tuesday with the arrival of the final batch of 312 pilgrims in Ilorin.

The contingent, which included the Amirul-Hajj, Senator Yahaya Oloriegbe, and other state officials, landed at the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon International Airport earlier than the initial schedule of Thursday.

In a brief conversation with journalists at the airport, Oloriegbe expressed gratitude to God for the successful completion of the Hajj exercise. He also acknowledged the unwavering support from Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, noting it significantly contributed to the smooth execution of the entire process.

“I also recognise the cooperation of the Kwara Pilgrims Welfare Board and the officials from the national body and other aviation agencies in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia,” Oloriegbe added.

He advised those who were part of the exercise to make the most of the spiritual enlightenment provided by the journey.

”They should also refrain from engaging in activities that will compromise their Hajj, or question the integrity of their new status.”

Prof. Mashood Jimba, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Board, expressed his appreciation to the State Governor for selecting Sen. Oloriegbe as the Amirul-Hajj.

He lauded the former lawmaker’s outstanding leadership as a significant asset for the State Board in facilitating the pilgrims’ operations.

Jimba assured that the board would continue to capitalise on this momentum and apply the lessons learnt in preparation for future operations.

“It is worth noting that more than 3,000 pilgrims utilised Kwara airspace for the pilgrimage this year,” he said (NAN)