Okpebholo seeks early preparation for Hajj
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has tasked the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to begin early preparation for future Hajj. Governor Okpebholo spoke when he received a report of
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has tasked the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board to begin early preparation for future Hajj.
Governor Okpebholo spoke when he received a report of the 2025 Hajj exercise from the leadership of the Pilgrims Welfare Board led by the Amirul Hajj, HRH Mallam Ali Suleyman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie.
Okpebholo noted that Hajj, as a long-established religious obligation, required deliberate and timely planning.
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He expressed disappointment that the delayed requests for support limited the state’s ability to intervene effectively for the 2026 Hajj.
The Edo Governor regretted the delays experienced and urged stakeholders to begin preparations for subsequent pilgrimages well in advance.
He said planning should commence nine months before Hajj with particular attention to the health and readiness of intending pilgrims.
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The governor said, "When problems are brought early, they can be solved early. But when something is happening tomorrow, and you bring the request today, it becomes difficult to address
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"I assure you we will continue to support the Muslim community in Edo State. We will continue to live together peacefully."
The Amirul Hajj, the Oghieaga of Ivbie, HRH, Mallam Ali Suleyman, sajd government intervention ensured improved welfare for pilgrims, including better accommodation close to the Ka’aba, provision of Nigerian meals, and enhanced medical services.
He said over 351 intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj were affected by the strict deadline for payment by the Saudi authorities, saying only 93 Edo pilgrims participated in the exercise.
The traditional ruler thanked the Governor for sponsoring 50 pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj and identified inadequate power supply, lack of internet connectivity, security concerns, and absence of official vehicles for logistics both within Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia as challenges facing the board.
