Kwara State Government will commence the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, with departures from Ilorin to Saudi Arabia.
The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Abdulsalam Abdulkadir, announced the schedule on Sunday, April 19, 2026, during an enlightenment program for prospective pilgrims in Ilorin.
He said the exercise would be conducted in phases to ensure a smooth operation. The first batch will depart on May 6, followed by a second batch on Thursday, May 7, and a third on Saturday, May 9.
Abdulkadir disclosed that Saudi authorities have introduced enhanced identification measures to strengthen coordination and safety. Pilgrims, he said, will receive identity cards bearing their details upon arrival in Medina, which will be required for access to key activities in Mecca.
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Chairman of the Board, Mashood Mahmud-Jimba, commended the state government for sustained support towards successful Hajj operations.
He assured intending pilgrims that all logistics have been finalized, including accommodation, transportation, and tents at Mina and Arafat, expressing confidence in a seamless exercise.
In a lecture at the program, the Grand Khadi of the Kwara State Shariah Court of Appeal, Abdullateef Kamaldeen, urged pilgrims to uphold piety, discipline, and patience throughout the exercise.
Special prayers for a hitch-free operation were led by the Imam Imale of Ilorin, Abdulhameed Abdullahi; Imam Gambari, Ajanasi Agba of Ilorin; and the Amir Hajj, the Etsu Tsaragi, Aliyu Kpotwa.