Jigawa commences health screening for 2026 Hajj pilgrims

The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has officially begun medical screening for intending pilgrims, marking a key step in preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise.

According to reports by TheLeader, the commencement of medical screening signals an intensification of preparations ahead of the 2026 Hajj, which is expected to attract a massive global turnout.

Speaking during the inauguration of the screening, which commenced on Tuesday at Hadejia General Hospital, the Director General of the board, Umar Labbo, stated that the exercise is crucial to 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 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.