The first batch of 423 Ghanaians who went to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to take part in the Hajj pilgrimage in 2026 have returned to Tamale.
The pilgrims that came on Friday night are predominantly from Bawku and the neighbouring areas.
After completing the Islamic pilgrimage successfully, the pilgrims were welcomed home by family members, well-wishers, security guards, and representatives of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG).
The return phase of Ghana’s 2026 Hajj operations began with the arrival of the first batch, and further planes are anticipated to return the remaining Ghanaian pilgrims in the days ahead.
Mohammed Amin Lamptey, PAOG’s director of communications, stated that all logistical and transportation arrangements had been made to guarantee the pilgrims’ safe passage from Tamale to their destinations, especially those going to Bawku and the nearby communities.
In order to ensure the pilgrims’ safe and easy passage, he continued, PAOG had organised security escorts and deployed buses in cooperation with the Ghanaian government, security organisations, Hajj agents, and transportation companies.
He claimed that the actions were meant to guarantee that each pilgrim made it back home safely and easily reconnected with their family.
Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, the Chairman of PAOG, extended his sincere appreciation to Allah, Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, Northern Regional Minister Ali Adolf John, and all those involved whose combined efforts enabled the transportation arrangements.
In addition, he said, “I am prayerfully looking forward to seeing a total transformation and development of Bawku, anchored on peace, love, and harmony.”
As families and communities reunite with their loved ones following weeks of spiritual devotion in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, the pilgrims’ successful arrival has been greeted with appreciation and joy.
Source: newsthemegh.com