Kano Pilgrims Board DG Bags IHR Award for Crisis Management, Hajj Innovation
Kola Oyelere, Kano
The Director-General of the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Abubakar Ibrahim Matawalle, has received the Independent Hajj Reporters (IHR) Award for Best Crisis Management and Innovation in Hajj 2026.
The award was presented to Matawalle at a ceremony held at the Central Mosque, Abuja, in recognition of his leadership, crisis-management efforts and innovative contributions to Hajj administration.
According to a statement signed by the Board’s Public Relations Officer, Sulaiman Abdullahi Dederi, the recognition underscored the Director-General’s efforts towards improving the administration and welfare of pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Matawalle expressed appreciation to Kano pilgrims for their patience, prayers, understanding and cooperation throughout the Hajj exercise.
He assured the IHR and the wider Hajj community that the Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board would continue to pursue initiatives aimed at promoting excellence, transparency, innovation and improved welfare for pilgrims.
Matawalle also reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to strengthening its operations and introducing additional measures to enhance the overall Hajj experience of Kano pilgrims in future exercises.
The Board described the award as a significant honour and motivation to continue striving for higher standards in service delivery and pilgrim welfare.
It expressed appreciation to the Independent Hajj Reporters for the recognition and to the organisers of the ceremony, on behalf of the people of Kano State and the Executive Governor of the state.
The Board further prayed for Allah’s reward for the Independent Hajj Reporters for their service to the Ummah and sought continued wisdom, commitment and resources for all stakeholders working to improve Hajj administration in Nigeria.