2026 Hajj: Edo Amirul Hajj Urges Pilgrims to Be Patient, Persevere
By Abdulmumin Aliu
The Edo State Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mallam Ali D. Sulayman, has called on intending pilgrims from the state to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of the state by embracing patience, perseverance and exemplary behavior throughout the Hajj exercise.
The Amirul Hajj gave the charge during the final screening exercise and distribution of travel luggage to the intending pilgrims ahead of the commencement of the 2026 Hajj operations.
Speaking in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, Mallam Ali Sulayman urged the pilgrims to remain mindful of their conduct at all times, stressing that their actions in the Holy Land would reflect not only on their families, but also on the image and reputation of Edo State and Nigeria.
He emphasized the importance of discipline, humility, patience and perseverance, noting that Hajj is a spiritual exercise that requires endurance, sacrifice, tolerance and total submission to the will of Allah.
According to him, intending pilgrims must justify the confidence reposed in them by the government and people of the state through good character, mutual respect and obedience to laid-down rules and regulations throughout the pilgrimage.
The Amirul Hajj also advised the pilgrims to purify their intentions for the journey, stating that the spiritual benefits and rewards of Hajj could only be fully attained through sincerity, steadfast devotion and perseverance in worship.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, commended the Amirul Hajj for what he described as exemplary leadership, administrative competence and commitment to the welfare of pilgrims.
He said the reappointment of the Oghieaga of Ibvie as Amirul Hajj for the 2026 exercise was a reflection of his experience, dedication and capacity to deliver effective leadership during the pilgrimage.
The chairman expressed confidence that the 2026 Hajj operation would witness improved coordination and a more fulfilling spiritual experience for pilgrims from Edo State under his leadership.
He also urged intending pilgrims to continue praying for peace, unity and development in Edo State and Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir MuhammaduKabir, described the Amirul Hajj as a committed and visionary leader whose contributions to the success of Hajj operations in the state have remained remarkable.
He noted that the Amirul Hajj’s leadership and coordination during the previous Hajj exercise contributed significantly to the smooth and successful conduct of the pilgrimage.
According to him, the decision to reappoint the Oghieaga for the 2026 Hajj exercise demonstrates the confidence and trust reposed in him by the government and the Muslim community in Edo State.
