The first batch of 558 pilgrims from Kwara State arrived in Ilorin on Saturday after successfully completing the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The returnees landed at the Babatunde Idiagbon International Airport, Ilorin, at exactly 6:19 a.m. aboard a Max Air flight.
They were accompanied by Hajia Khadijat Otuyo, a representative of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board.
Their return marks the beginning of a phased repatriation schedule, as earlier announced by the state government. According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, the pilgrims are expected back in Nigeria in four batches: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th.
“Kwara has some 2,204 pilgrims this year, one of the biggest contingents from Nigeria. These pilgrims are scheduled to depart Saudi in four batches as follows: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th. This schedule was not designed by the Kwara State Government; it was designed by all the stakeholders: NAHCON, airlines, and the pilgrims’ board,” Ajakaye explained.
Several returning pilgrims commended the Kwara Pilgrims’ Welfare Board for ensuring smooth arrangements during their stay in the holy land. They particularly praised the quality of accommodation, meals, and transportation provided throughout the pilgrimage.
