BENIN CITY: Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has received the report of the 2025 Hajj exercise, urging early planning for future pilgrimages amid a sharp drop in the number of intending pilgrims for 2026.
The report was presented by the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, led by the Amirul Hajj, HRH Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie.
The governor also received the report of the 2025 State and National Quranic Competition held in Maiduguri, Borno State, presented by the Acting State Coordinator of Edo State Musaabaqah, Barr. Hamza Umar. He commended Edo State participants for their outstanding performance, praising their dedication and excellence at the competition.
Speaking while receiving the delegation, Okpebholo described Hajj as a long-established religious obligation requiring deliberate and timely planning, noting that it is “a culture we grew up to meet.”
He expressed concern over the late submission of requests to government, which he said limited the state’s ability to intervene effectively for the 2026 Hajj.
“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,” the governor said.
He regretted the delays and urged stakeholders to begin preparations for subsequent pilgrimages well in advance, recommending that planning should commence at least nine months ahead, with particular attention to the health and readiness of intending pilgrims.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of Muslims in the state, assuring continued support for pilgrimage activities and peaceful coexistence.
“I assure you we will continue to support the Muslim community in Edo State. We will continue to live together peacefully,” he said.
Okpebholo also disclosed plans to explore the possibility of securing approval for Edo State to serve as a departure point for pilgrims in the South-South, noting that such a move could boost the state’s economy through increased commercial activities.
He commended the Amirul Hajj and the delegation for what he described as a successful 2025 Hajj exercise, stating that their efforts made a positive impact.
Earlier, the Amirul Hajj, HRH Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, commended the governor for his support during the 2025 Hajj, describing it as one of the most successful outings for the state.
He said government intervention improved pilgrims’ welfare, including better accommodation close to the Ka’aba, provision of Nigerian meals, and enhanced medical services.
According to him, the quality of arrangements attracted attention beyond Edo State, with officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and pilgrims from other regions benefiting from Edo’s facilities.
Despite the successes recorded in 2025, he highlighted challenges affecting the forthcoming 2026 Hajj, particularly the impact of a strict payment deadline imposed by Saudi authorities.
He disclosed that over 351 intending pilgrims were affected, leaving only 93 able to participate in the 2026 exercise.
The traditional ruler also appreciated the governor for sponsoring 50 pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj, though noting that not all could be accommodated due to the payment constraints.
He further identified operational challenges facing the board, including inadequate power supply, lack of internet connectivity, security concerns, and absence of official vehicles for logistics both within Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia.
He, however, expressed optimism that with improved planning and sustained government support, Edo State could emerge as a major Hajj departure hub for the South-South and South-East regions, creating additional revenue opportunities.
Other dignitaries present at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq; Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh; Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir; and Acting Chairman of Edo State Musaabaqah, Barr. Hamza Umar.