In a strong call to integrity and national pride, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has warned the 2025 Hajj pilgrims from the state against engaging in drug trafficking, money laundering, or any act capable of damaging Nigeria’s reputation abroad.
The warning was issued during a farewell ceremony held on Sunday, May 18, in Gombe, ahead of the pilgrims’ departure to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the annual Islamic pilgrimage. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, the governor emphasized the importance of good conduct, strict compliance with international laws, and the spiritual significance of Hajj.
Addressing the over 950 intending pilgrims, Yahaya made it clear that the Saudi Arabian authorities maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards drug-related offenses, with capital punishment awaiting offenders.
“Anybody caught carrying prohibited items, especially narcotic drugs—whose penalty in Saudi Arabia is death—should have himself or herself to blame,” he stated unequivocally.
The governor noted that ignorance would not be a defense for anyone caught as a courier or accomplice in illicit trade. He advised the pilgrims not to allow themselves to be used, even unknowingly, as conduits for drug or currency smuggling.
“You must not allow yourselves to be used as conduit pipes for illegal trade, even unknowingly,” he cautioned.
Beyond the legal dangers, Yahaya urged pilgrims to be ambassadors of Nigeria by exhibiting discipline, patriotism, and respect for both Nigerian and Saudi laws. He reminded them that their behavior abroad could either uplift or damage the country’s image.
“Conduct yourselves with dignity. Respect the laws of Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. This pilgrimage is not just a journey, it is a sacred religious obligation. Do not lose its value to recklessness,” he added.
The governor also instructed the officials of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to prioritize the welfare, safety, and spiritual needs of the pilgrims, ensuring a smooth Hajj operation free of negligence or corruption.
Speaking at the event, Executive Secretary of the Gombe State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. Sa’adu Hassan, disclosed that a total of 957 pilgrims from the state have been registered to participate in this year’s Hajj. He stated that the airlift will occur in two phases:
The first batch of 512 pilgrims is scheduled to depart on Monday, May 19.
The second batch of 445 pilgrims is expected to leave on Tuesday, May 20.
Hassan also confirmed that preparations were in top gear and commended the cooperation between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the state government for ensuring timely visa processing, accommodation, and logistics arrangements.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Emir of Dukku, Alhaji Haruna Abdulkadir Rashid II, who doubles as the Chairman of the State Pilgrims Board, lauded the governor for his unwavering support in ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for Gombe indigenes. He charged the pilgrims to remember the spiritual core of the journey and pray for peace, unity, and development of Gombe State and Nigeria as a whole.
“Hajj is a rare spiritual opportunity. Do not misuse it. Be responsible and represent our state and country positively,” the Emir advised.
The caution by Governor Yahaya aligns with earlier warnings issued by NAHCON and various state officials across Nigeria. In recent years, incidents of Nigerian pilgrims being caught with banned substances in Saudi Arabia have led to diplomatic strains and public embarrassment.
Saudi Arabia enforces stringent penalties, including life imprisonment or death, for offenses such as drug trafficking and money smuggling. NAHCON has consistently warned that pilgrims must be thoroughly screened and educated
As the first group of Gombe State pilgrims departs for the 2025 Hajj, the message from the state leadership is clear: obey the law, uphold moral conduct, and preserve Nigeria’s global reputation. With Saudi authorities intensifying scrutiny of international pilgrims, Nigerian pilgrims are reminded that the Hajj journey is both a spiritual responsibility and a test of integrity.