The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has called on all intending pilgrims within the state to avoid taking kolanut to Saudi Arabia.

The director-general of the board, Abubakar Ibrahim-Matawalle, disclosed this in a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the board, Sulaiman Dederi, on Wednesday in Kano.

According to the statement, this is in line with the rules and regulations guiding the 2026 Hajj exercise, which prohibit the transportation of contraband items to Saudi Arabia.

“The restriction on kolanut is a directive from Saudi Arabian authorities to ensure safety, security, and smooth conduct of Hajj operations”.

The director-general urged all pilgrims to fully cooperate with officials by refraining from carrying prohibited items during their journey, adding that the board is committed to ensuring that all pilgrims from Kano State perform their religious obligations in a peaceful, orderly, and lawful manner.

He also appealed to intending pilgrims to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security personnel, and attend all scheduled orientation and enlightenment programmes organised by the board ahead of their departure. 

(NAN)