Is the last batch of 635 intending pilgrims from Yobe state depart via Dutse airport to Saudi Arabia for the 2014 Hajj exercise, they have been urged to be good ambassadors of the state in particular, and the nation at large at the Holy Land.
The state Deputy Governor, Engr. Abubakar Aliyu made the call yesterday, while addressing the pilgrims at the Yobe Islamic centre, Damaturu.
While urging them to pray earnestly for peace to reign in the state and the country at large, he warned them against behaviours that could tarnish the image of the state or that of the country, while enjoining them to beware of unnecessary, extravagant spending, so as to spare what money they have for more important things and to maintain a reserve for the journey back home.
He pointed out that some pilgrims indulge in unnecessary spending on minor things just because they have the money and found things cheaper in the Holy Land and end up emptying their pockets and become beggars afterward.
He also warned them against greedy eating, so as to preserve a health body rather than falling ill because of such habits; he, however, assured them of the presence of doctors with them and to report any health problems they may encounter to the medical personnel among them, for their quick intervention.
He assured them that the state government have made adequate provisions that would enable them perform the Hajj exercise with relative ease, which provisions include accommodation close to the Hajj ground and enough provision also for their feeding, including funds for the purchase of sacrificial animals among others.
Speaking during the occasion, the Secretary of the Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Alh.Kime told journalists that a total number of 1635 out of the total number of 2278 pilgrims have already been air lifted to the Holy Land, leaving 635 for the last batch.
The occasion was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Engr. Baba GoniMachina, some members of the State Executive Council among others.
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