By Matthew Denis
The Ilorin International Airport has recorded increase in the number of passengers flying the two commercial airlines operating at the airport in recent time.
This is not unconnected with the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia Kingdom by Muslim faithful for the lesser hajj (umrah).
Pilot Aviation observed that intending Muslim pilgrims have been leaving the state since last week for Ilorin enroute Abuja to board international airline to the holy land.
The passengers who were in groups travelled with Overland Airline and Arik Air during different flight schedules at the weekend.
Speaking to this medium, one of the passengers, Mujid Oladimeji confirmed that he is an intending pilgrim for the lesser hajj in Mecca.
He said “I’m traveling through a connecting flight in Kano for umrah to complete my Ramadan fasting and offer prayers in Mecca.”
Another intending pilgrim, Mrs. Mayinat Danladi said she was travelling by air to Lagos for onward flight to Mecca for lesser hajj to pray to Allah to forgive his sins and pray for peace in the country.
A team leader of a group of intending pilgrims, Alhaji Abubakar Ndaman said the number of people in his cluster for this year has reduced compared to previous years.
According to him, this year the number reduced from 30 pilgrims to below 20 because many people couldn’t afford the air fare.
