Mr Abubakar noted that the governor had constituted a Special Hajj Committee which he chairs, to sanitise all aspects of pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia in December 2023.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, on Thursday carried out an inspection of key facilities in four sacred sites (Masha’ir) in Mecca.
Saudi Arabia has officially declared Monday, May 18, as the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
Mr Yusuf said, “I’m pleased with the maturity demonstrated by our pilgrims in all the designated areas.’’
The ritual at Mount Arafat, known as the Hill of Mercy, is considered the peak of the Hajj pilgrimage.
He implored the pilgrims to always seek shade whenever possible to avoid direct sunlight.
More than 1.5 million pilgrims readied themselves for a once-in-a-lifetime journey of faith.
Mr Al Rabiah said preparations for the 2024 Hajj will begin immediately with letters to each performing country.
A famous Kano-based Islamic cleric, Sheikh Aminu Daurawa, led the prayer session.
She died in her sleep shortly after returning from Mount Arafat, according to her neighbours in the tent.
