The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced the passing of 75-year-old Umar Hamza, a pilgrim from Gaya Local Government, who succumbed to a prolonged illness in a Makkah hospital. Hamza had been receiving medical care in Saudi Arabia since the 2023 Hajj, following an illness that required his hospitalization. According to the Board’s Director General, Alhaji Laminu Rabi’u Danbappa, a family member was sponsored by the board to support Hamza during his treatment in Makkah.

In a statement released by the Board’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Dederi, Danbappa confirmed Hamza’s death on Thursday, describing him as a respected Islamic scholar. The announcement was made in Gaya Local Government at Hamza’s residence, where Danbappa expressed his condolences, praising Hamza’s contributions to Islamic education.

The Board extended its sympathies to Hamza’s son, Jafar Umar Hamza, his family, and the larger Muslim community. The Director General offered prayers for the deceased, seeking Allah’s mercy for his eternal rest and strength for his family to endure this significant loss.