The Katsina State 2026 Hajj Committee has held its inaugural meeting, marking the commencement of preparations for the 2026 pilgrimage.

The meeting, which took place shortly after the committee’s inauguration by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, brought together members of the committee, as well as the board and management of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board.

Speaking at the meeting, the Amirul Hajj and Chairman of the Committee, Ahmad Usman El-Marzuq, expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in members and assured of their commitment to delivering on the mandate with diligence and transparency.

The Executive Director of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Yunusa Abdullahi Dankama, briefed the committee on the current level of preparations, key timelines and operational considerations for the exercise.

Also, the Director of Operations, Nasiru Dan-Zaria, presented details on logistics, coordination mechanisms and priority areas requiring early attention.

The Chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, Kabir Bature, alongside board members and senior management staff, were also in attendance.

Discussions at the meeting centred on critical areas such as early planning strategies, pilgrim registration, welfare arrangements, transportation logistics, and stakeholder engagement both within Nigeria and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The committee emphasised the need for effective communication and timely dissemination of information to ensure a smooth and seamless Hajj experience for intending pilgrims.

Membership of the committee cuts across various sectors, including the media and judiciary, aimed at ensuring inclusiveness in the planning process.

The committee resolved to commence work immediately on a comprehensive operational plan and communication strategy to guide all phases of the 2026 Hajj exercise.

It also assured the public, particularly intending pilgrims, of its commitment to ensuring a transparent, efficient and pilgrim-friendly Hajj operation.