Edo gov’t Reappoint Oghieaga of Three Ivbies as Amirul Hajj for 2026
By Abdulmumin Aliu
The Edo State Government has announced the reappointment of His Royal Highness, Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, the Oghieaga of Three Ivbies, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage season.
Governor Monday Okpebholo made the announcement during a session convened to receive and review the 2025 Hajj operational report at the Government House, Benin.
The session provided a platform for a performance assessment of the state’s pilgrimage management structure and logistical delivery.
Governor Okpebholo described the reappointment as a deliberate policy decision anchored on continuity, institutional stability, and confidence in proven leadership.
He stated that the administration prioritizes efficiency and accountability in Hajj operations, adding that the Oghieaga has demonstrated strong administrative competence and coordination capacity in previous assignments.
According to the Governor, the decision reflects the government’s intent to strengthen pilgrimage management systems and ensure that Edo State maintains a structured, well-coordinated, and pilgrim-centered Hajj framework.
He emphasized that the 2026 exercise will build on lessons and gains recorded in the previous year.
In his response, the Amirul Hajj, Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, expressed appreciation to the state government for the renewed confidence placed in his leadership.
He commended the Governor for sustained institutional support to Muslim pilgrims and highlighted measurable improvements achieved during the 2025 Hajj operations.
He cited enhanced accommodation arrangements, improved access to Nigerian-standard meals, and strengthened medical support services as key performance indicators recorded during the last pilgrimage cycle.
He further noted that operational coordination between relevant agencies contributed significantly to improved pilgrim welfare and service delivery.
The Oghieaga reaffirmed his commitment to advancing a more efficient and responsive Hajj management system for Edo State.
He expressed confidence that with strengthened planning mechanisms and continued government backing, the state will achieve higher operational standards and improved outcomes in the 2026 pilgrimage exercise.
