Edo seals hajj preparations, completes pilgrims’ vaccination

BENIN CITY — Edo State has concluded key pre-Hajj preparations for the 2026 pilgrimage, successfully completing the distribution of kits, uniforms and vaccination of intending pilgrims across its three senatorial districts.

Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, confirmed that the state is fully set for a seamless and well-coordinated Hajj exercise.

The exercise, which commenced in Edo South on Saturday, was extended to Edo Central and Edo North on Sunday in line with the Board’s implementation schedule.

Speaking to journalists at the Board’s office in Benin City, Uduimoh said comprehensive arrangements had been put in place to ensure a hitch-free pilgrimage.

“We are well prepared for a seamless Hajj operation. We have secured a vendor to provide Nigerian meals for our pilgrims and arranged accommodation close to the Haram,” he said.

The Executive Secretary of the Board, Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir, described the exercise as a critical phase of the preparation process.

He explained that activities included orientation sessions, medical screening and the distribution of Hajj kits and travel bags to intending pilgrims.

According to him, the programme moved seamlessly across the three districts, completing all scheduled activities within the stipulated timeframe.

As part of the preparations, medical personnel provided health guidance to pilgrims, with Dr Mahmoud stressing the importance of both physical and mental readiness for the spiritual journey.

Pilgrims were subsequently immunised against yellow fever, oral polio and meningitis as part of mandatory health requirements.

An Islamic scholar, Harun Umar, also delivered a lecture on the rites and obligations of Hajj and Umrah, offering guidance on proper observance of the pilgrimage.

The Board had earlier made participation in the exercise compulsory for all intending pilgrims as part of efforts to ensure a smooth and successful 2026 Hajj operation.