The first batch of Ghanaian pilgrims returning from Mecca landed at the Yakubu Tali International Airport in Tamale, Northern Region, amidst loud cheers and praise for President John Dramani Mahama and his government for their unwavering support to the Muslim community in Ghana.

Approximately 664 pilgrims arrived around 5:00 pm on Friday, June 20, to a rousing welcome led by the Chairman of the Hajj Board, Collins Dauda, alongside the Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, and the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu.

Excited family members and friends lined up for over a kilometre outside the airport premises to welcome the returnees, singing praises to Allah and chanting in celebration.

A visibly cheerful Mr. Dauda commended President Mahama for his continued support and dedication to the Muslim community.

“We are extremely grateful to President Mahama for his commitment and support to Muslims in Ghana. He has never disappointed us. I always say that President Mahama is a blessing to the Ummah in Ghana,” he stated.

He also praised all stakeholders for a successful Hajj process and thanked the pilgrims for representing Ghana with exemplary conduct throughout their journey.

Mr. Dauda further disclosed that all Ghanaian pilgrims are expected to return home by June 27, stating, “By the 27th of June, every pilgrim from Ghana would have arrived.”

In total, about 6,000 Ghanaian pilgrims are being airlifted directly from the Holy Land via seven separate flights scheduled between June 20 and June 27, 2025.

“This is the first batch we are welcoming in Tamale. Tomorrow, there will be another flight; the next day, one more. On the fourth day, there will be the fifth flight, and two more flights on the fifth day, making a total of seven. After that, we move to Accra,” Mr. Dauda explained.

He attributed the remarkable success of the 2025 Hajj to President Mahama’s direct involvement, noting, “For the first time in the history of Hajj organisation, the President provided the white garments (Ihram) used by male pilgrims for free. This has never happened before, and we owe it a duty to say, ‘Allah bless and keep President John Mahama safe.’”

He added that all flights departing from Tamale were fully booked and operated according to schedule without any delays.

“We had a successful Hajj. From Medina to Mecca, then to Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Jamarat, and finally returning to Mecca, all movements went smoothly.”

Northern Regional Minister Adolf Ali also commended the Hajj effort, stating that this year’s smooth operations have silenced critics of President Mahama and the NDC.

“This year’s Hajj has silenced all critics. No one can genuinely say anything negative about our efforts. This was a peaceful and historic Hajj. I commend all Hajj staff and pilgrims for the teamwork that led to the joy we see on their faces today,” he said.