The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced mandatory medical screening for intending pilgrims as preparations for the 2026 Hajj intensify.
The screening was inaugurated on Tuesday at the Hadejia General Hospital. The Director-General of the board, Umar Labbo, emphasized that the exercise is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of all pilgrims from the state.
“The medical screening is part of our ground preparation to ensure the health and safety of all pilgrims,” Labbo stated. He reiterated the board’s commitment to strictly adhere to Saudi Arabian regulations, which permit only medically fit individuals to perform the pilgrimage.
“We are committed to ensuring that only medically fit pilgrims are allowed to perform Hajj,” he affirmed.
Labbo, who was accompanied by the Director of Operations, Muhammad Garba, promised transparency and fairness throughout the process. He urged all intending pilgrims to cooperate fully with the medical personnel.
The board aims to leave no stone unturned in ensuring pilgrims are adequately prepared for the journey.
Speaking to our correspondent, some intending pilgrims shared their experiences. A first-time pilgrim, Aisha Mohammed, expressed relief, saying, “I’m feeling great, alhamdulillah! The process was smooth, and the medical team was very professional.”
Another pilgrim, Abdullahi Yusuf, admitted to feeling anxious but hopeful. “I hope everything goes well, insha’Allah. I’ve been preparing for this moment for so long… Fingers crossed for a successful outcome,” he said.
The medical screening is a critical prerequisite for the Hajj, which is expected to attract millions of Muslims from across the globe next year.
