National News
Jigawa commences medical screening ahead of 2026 Hajj
The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has started medical screening for intending pilgrims as preparations for the 2026 Hajj gather momentum.
The move comes as plans intensify for the annual pilgrimage, which is expected to attract millions of Muslims from different parts of the world.
The screening exercise began on Tuesday at the Hadejia General Hospital.
The Director General of the board, Umar Labbo, said the medical checks are important to safeguard the health and wellbeing of pilgrims from the state.
He explained that the exercise will help identify health conditions early and ensure that only medically fit pilgrims participate in the 2026 Hajj.
According to Labbo, the board is committed to ensuring a safe and successful pilgrimage for all Jigawa pilgrims, adding that proper medical screening remains a key part of the preparation process.
“The medical screening is part of our ground preparation to ensure the health and safety of all pilgrims,” Labbo said.
According to Labbo, the board is committed to adhering strictly to Saudi Arabian regulations, which stipulate that only medically fit pilgrims will be permitted to perform Hajj.
“We are committed to ensuring that only medically fit pilgrims are allowed to perform Hajj,” Labbo emphasised.
The Director General was accompanied by the Director of Operations, Muhammad Garba, who echoed the board’s commitment to transparency and fairness throughout the exercise.
“Only medically fit pilgrims will be permitted to perform Hajj,” Labbo reiterated.
However, the DG promised transparency and fairness throughout the exercise, adding that the board would ensure that all procedures are followed.
“The medical screening is a critical component of the Hajj preparation process, aimed at ensuring that pilgrims are healthy enough to undertake the pilgrimage,” he added.
Labbo also highlighted that the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that intending pilgrims are well prepared for the journey.
He therefore urged pilgrims to cooperate with medical personnel during the screening process.
Commenting in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, Aisha Mohammed, a first-time pilgrim from Jigawa, expressed her excitement and relief after the medical screening.
“I’m feeling great, alhamdulillah! The process was smooth, and the medical team was very professional. I’m looking forward to performing Hajj and praying for my family’s well-being,” she said.
Abdullahi Yusuf, an intending pilgrim who has been waiting for this opportunity for years, was a bit anxious about the medical results.
“I hope everything goes well, insha’Allah. I’ve been preparing for this moment for so long. The medical screening was thorough, and I appreciate the efforts of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board. Fingers crossed for a successful outcome,” he said with a hopeful smile”, Yusuf said.

Follow Us on Google Discover