Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has urged intending pilgrims from the state to avoid all forms of misconduct during the 2026 Hajj exercise and conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of Kano State and Nigeria.

The governor gave the warning while addressing the first batch of 560 pilgrims scheduled to be airlifted to Saudi Arabia for this year’s pilgrimage.

This was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad.

Yusuf advised the pilgrims to fear God, obey the laws of the Holy Land, and maintain exemplary behaviour throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.

“We believe our pilgrims are wonderful people and will not engage in any shameful act capable of denting the image of the state,” the governor said.

He assured the pilgrims that the Kano State Government had made adequate arrangements for their welfare, including the provision of medical personnel and healthcare facilities to attend to anyone who falls ill during the pilgrimage.

According to him, the government had fulfilled all necessary obligations to ensure the comfort and safety of the pilgrims both in Nigeria and at the Holy Land.

“My Deputy Governor, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, was with you and briefed you on my behalf. We have done a lot for you, especially in healthcare,” he stated.

The governor also announced the appointment of the Emir of Gaya, Dr Aliyu Ibrahim Abdulkadir, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, while the Emir of Karaye, Alhaji Muhammad Muhammad Maharaz, would serve as deputy Amirul Hajj.

Earlier, the Director General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Matawalle, commended the state government for its support in ensuring a successful and hitch-free Hajj operation.

Matawalle disclosed that all 560 pilgrims on the first flight had been provided with basic hygiene materials, including soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, to support their immediate needs upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

The farewell event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Murtala Sule Garo, the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, the Amirul Hajj and other senior government officials.