The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced the death of two pilgrims and declared one person missing during the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
The Director General of the Board, Alhaji Laminu Rabi’u Danbappa, made this known on Wednesday while submitting the official Hajj operations report to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
He identified the missing pilgrim as Sani Abubakar Danmaliki from Kumbotso Local Government Area, who was last seen in Madina before the Arafat rites. Despite efforts by the Saudi authorities, the Nigerian Embassy, and Kano Hajj officials, his whereabouts remain unknown.
“This year’s exercise recorded success with no disease outbreak. Unfortunately, we lost two pilgrims, while one is still unaccounted for,” Danbappa said, adding that the search efforts were ongoing.
He revealed that a special committee—including mental health professionals—has been set up to screen prospective pilgrims’ mental fitness before subsequent Hajj operations.
Looking ahead to 2026, Danbappa disclosed that Kano has been allocated 5,684 Hajj slots, with an initial deposit of N8.5 million already paid to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON). He advised intending pilgrims to complete their payments before the October 8, 2025 deadline set by Saudi authorities.
The Director General also lauded the state government for its consistent support, citing the SR250 Salah stipend given to each pilgrim and official.
Earlier, the 2025 Amirul Hajj and Emir of Karaye, Alhaji Muhammad Mahraz, presented a comprehensive report highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations—particularly on the need to improve transportation arrangements by Saudi authorities.
In his remarks, Governor Yusuf sympathised with the families of the deceased pilgrims and assured that all necessary efforts were being made to trace the missing pilgrim. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and safety of Kano pilgrims in future exercises.