In a recent development, three Nigerian pilgrims from Kebbi State who went missing during the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage have been located and rescued by state government officials in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi State Governor, Malam Ahmed Idris, confirmed the rescue in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja.
The rescued pilgrims were among those sponsored by the Kebbi state government to participate in 2024 pilgrimage, with the additional role of assisting other pilgrims as needed.
Executive Director of the Women’s Right Advancement and Protection Alternative in Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, confirmed that a woman from Kamba Local Government Area had been found after losing her way.
She had inadvertently wandered behind Al-Masjid Al-Haram, Kaaba, ending up in an unfamiliar area.
“As Kebbi State Government officials, we intervened and redirected her back home using a taxi service,” Idris explained.
He noted that state officials often assist with translation and serve as intermediaries due to language barriers. They also provide valuable suggestions to ensure the success of the Hajj exercise.
These efforts are not limited to Kebbi State pilgrims alone.
Idris highlighted that officials also assist other Nigerian pilgrims when needed, citing a recent incident where two women from Bauchi State were guided back to their hotel after losing their way.
The ongoing humanitarian services by Kebbi State officials are expected to continue throughout the Hajj pilgrimage.
Idris called for greater support and cooperation from pilgrims to ensure a smooth Hajj operation.
He urged pilgrims to always travel in groups to avoid getting lost and to be mindful of their spending.
He also encouraged them to seek guidance from clerics on performing the proper Hajj rituals to ensure an acceptable pilgrimage.
