The Northern Regional Minister and Chairman of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), Hon. Ali Adolf John, has led a high-powered delegation of REGSEC members to bid farewell to the first batch of Hajj pilgrims at the Tamale International Airport ahead of their departure to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The visit, which took place on Friday, May 1, 2026, marked the official airlifting of the first group of 430 pilgrims out of a total of 6,700 expected to undertake this yearโs Hajj pilgrimage from the region and across the country.
The pilgrims are scheduled to fly to Madina before proceeding to Mecca to perform the sacred rites of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam.
Addressing the pilgrims, Hon. Ali Adolf John congratulated them for being granted the rare opportunity to embark on the spiritual journey, describing it as a divine privilege and a moment of deep religious significance. He urged them to uphold discipline, humility, and respect throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia, reminding them that they are ambassadors of Ghana.
โYou carry not only your personal faith but also the image of our nation. Let your conduct reflect the values of peace, tolerance, and unity that Ghana is known for,โ he stated.
The Minister also advised the pilgrims to strictly adhere to all guidelines issued by the Hajj Board and officials to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with authorities and adherence to safety protocols.
Hon. Ali Adolf John further assured the public of REGSECโs commitment to ensuring a safe and well-coordinated airlifting process. He commended the collaborative efforts of all security agencies, including the Military Command, Ghana Police Service, Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Prisons Service, for their professionalism and dedication.
The REGSEC delegation included key officials such as the Army Commander, Regional Police Commander, Chief Director, representatives from the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), Immigration Service, the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, the Sagnarigu Municipal Assembly, as well as heads of the Fire and Prisons Services.
According to officials of the Hajj Board, elaborate arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth transportation, accommodation, and welfare of all pilgrims throughout the exercise.
The Northern Regional Minister also used the occasion to call on the pilgrims to remember Ghana, particularly the Northern Region, in their prayers. He urged them to pray for peace, unity, and national development, as well as for the leadership of the country.
The atmosphere at the Tamale International Airport was filled with emotion as families and well-wishers gathered to see off their loved ones, offering prayers and words of encouragement.
The airlifting of pilgrims is expected to continue in batches in the coming days until all 6,700 pilgrims are successfully transported to Saudi Arabia for this yearโs Hajj.
The initiative underscores the governmentโs continued commitment to supporting the religious obligations of Muslims while ensuring safety, organization, and efficiency in the pilgrimage process.
