Matawalle commended the pilgrims for their patience, cooperation and discipline throughout the Hajj operations, noting that their conduct contributed significantly to the success of the exercise.

He also prayed for their safe journey home and a joyful reunion with their families after the spiritual pilgrimage.

The Director-General was accompanied at the farewell ceremony by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Alhaji Yusuf Lawan, the Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Yusuf Aliyu Mukhtar, the Director of Hajj Operations, and other senior officials of the board.

The ongoing return airlift is part of efforts by the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board to ensure the safe and orderly transportation of all pilgrims who participated in the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.