The Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has successfully completed the airlift of all 2026 Hajj pilgrims back to Nigeria from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims, filled with excitement and gratitude to Almighty Allah, received their luggage and Zamzam water in an orderly manner upon arrival at the Murtala International Airport, Lagos.

In his message to the Pilgrims, Chairman , Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board,  Sheikh Abdul- Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP,  expressed gratitude to Allah for the successful completion of the pilgrimage and safe return of the pilgrims. He also appreciated the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, for his consistent support for the Board over the years.

Sheikh Atere congratulated the pilgrims  on being privileged to participate in the just-concluded Hajj and urged them to remain steadfast in their devotion to Allah and showcase the spiritual lessons of the pilgrimage in their daily lives.

It would be recalled that the fourth and final batch of pilgrims from Oyo state,  led by the Chairman of the Board, Sheikh Atere  departed the King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah, Mekkah on Wednesday afternoon, June 10, 2026 .

The batch, comprising 84 pilgrims arrived in Nigeria through the Air  Peace Airline on Wednesday night.

Islam, a religion known for promoting peace and harmony globally, is founded on fundamental principles that serve as a compass for Muslims in their daily lives.

These principles guide Muslims on how to practice the religion in a manner that makes their acts of worship rewarding and acceptable to Almighty Allah.

Among these principles are faith in Allah and His Messenger, Prophet Muhammad (SAW), the observance of the five daily prayers (Salah), fasting during the month of Ramadan, giving charity (Sadaqah), and performing the Hajj pilgrimage.

There is no doubt that Hajj pilgrimage goes beyond physical journey to the Holy city of Makkah. It is a profound spiritual experience that transforms the lives of pilgrims, drawing them closer to Allah and inspiring lasting changes in their character, faith, and relationship with others.

Hajj is obligatory (Fard) and not optional for every Muslim who meets the following prescribed conditions : attained puberty stage, be of sound mind, possesses the physical and financial ability to undertake the journey safely.

Given these conditions, Hajj remains one of the most significant acts of worship in Islam considering its profound influence on pilgrims and the numerous benefits associated with it.
One of the most remarkable impacts of Hajj is spiritual growth. During the pilgrimage, participants often become more devoted to the worship of Allah, engaging in prayers, supplications, remembrance of Allah (dhikr), and acts of charity with renewed commitment. This deep spiritual experience strengthens their faith, enhances their consciousness of Allah, and inspires them to maintain a closer relationship with Him even after returning home.

The experience also reinforces the reality that worldly status and possessions are temporary as every pilgrim receives equal treatment, particularly in Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafah, where people from different social and economic backgrounds share similar facilities and experiences.

The wealthy often put aside their status and privileges, embracing humility and equality before Allah.

Some Islamic scholars have observed that the limited sleeping space allotted to pilgrims in Mina and Arafah serves as a reminder of the grave, reinforcing the reality that every soul shall return to Allah at an appointed time.

Spending the night in Muzdalifah and walking to Jamarat in Mina for the symbolic stoning of the devil requires physical strength and determination. Despite the challenges, pilgrims undertake these rites enthusiastically, and the physical activities involved also contribute positively to their overall well-being.

The rituals of Hajj also teach patience, perseverance, and endurance. Another memorable aspect of Hajj is the opportunity to visit historical and religious sites in Makkah and Madina. These visits create lasting memories and deepen pilgrims’ understanding of Islamic history, while also preparing them spiritually for significant rites such as the Day of Arafah.

The pilgrimage promotes companionship and mutual support. Pilgrims also assist and tolerate one another, establish contacts among themselves and keep after the pilgrimage.

As contained in a Hadith of the Prophet :
An authentic hadith of the Prophet Muhammad “Whoever performs Hajj for Allah’s sake and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing, will return (free from sin) as on the day his mother gave birth to him.”( Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim).

Pilgrims who performed all the Hajj rites accordingly will have all sins forgiven.While prayers offered on Arafah are to be answered by Allah, the greatest benefit of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Preserving the feat with good deeds and total submission to the will of Allah at all times should be paramount to the pilgrims considering the energy , time and fund invested in the pilgrimage . Muslims who have the funds , hail and healthy should also consider participation in earnest.

Adedamola Adegoke Ibraheem
Public Relations Officer
Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board*
Writes from Makkah

The 2026 Hajj pilgrims from Oyo State on Wednesday commenced another mandatory Hajj rite with a visit to Jamarat in Mina for the symbolic stoning ritual.

The pilgrims departed Muzdalifah  for muna early Wednesday after observing the required religious rites at the location on Tuesday night.

Speaking through a phone call from Nigeria during the annual programme of the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board in Arafah, the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE congratulated the pilgrims on the successful completion of the Hajj rites in Arafah.

The Governor described the participation by the pilgrims in the Hajj pilgrimage as a rare privilege considering the millions of Muslims across the globe seeking the spiritual exercise.

He noted that destiny, timing and the support of benefactors play significant roles in human life, stressing that the pilgrims’ participation was a product of those factors.

Alhaji AbdulHakeem AbdulAzeez, the Personal Assistant to the Executive Governor of Oyo State and Leader of the State Government Delegates in his remarks, urged the pilgrims to remain grateful to Almighty Allah and appreciate their benefactors at all times.

He also commended them for serving as worthy ambassadors of the State in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Delivering a brief sermon at the event, the Chairman of the State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Abdul-Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide JP, warned the pilgrims against engaging in acts prohibited by Allah.

He further urged them to remain steadfast in their devotion to Allah and continually seek His guidance and assistance.

The Chairman disclosed that the registration process for the 2027 Hajj exercise had already been announced by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, calling on intending pilgrims from the State to commence registration early.

Sheikh Atere also appreciated Governor Makinde for his consistent support to the board and acknowledged the contributions and donations from individuals towards the success of the pilgrimage exercise.

In a chat with some of the pilgrims, Alhaji Adeyemo Maroof, Alhaji  Raji Gbolagade, Alhaji Sarafadeen Akanbi and  Alhaja Sadare Sekinat, expressed delight  for being among those who converged across the globe for the Hajj pilgrimage .

They revealed that the orientation lectures on Hajj rites and the necessary preparations for each stage of the pilgrimage put in place by the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board had made the exercise easier for them.

The pilgrims are expected to complete the symbolic stoning ritual on Friday, 29 May 2026.

Highlights of the event included Qur’an recitation and special prayers for Nigeria, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State; Oyo State, The Board, individual pilgrims and Distinguished Senator Monsurat Sunmonu who provided over one thousand pilgrims with sumptuous local meals on the day of Arafah  alongside other individuals who contributed to the success of the board.

The Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has intensified preparations to ensure that pilgrims from the State perform the major Hajj rites successfully through the inspection of facilities allocated to the State in Arafat and Mina by Mashariq Al-Dahabiah, the Service Provider appointed by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for all Nigerian States in Saudi Arabia.

Facilities inspected by officials of the Board, led by its Secretary, Mr Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi, included tents, beds, toilets, security apparatus and other essential amenities.

Route assessments were also carried out to aid the easy movement of pilgrims from one point to another in Arafat, Mina and Muzdalifah during the spiritual Hajj rites, scheduled for the holy sites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Speaking shortly after the inspection tour on Thursday in Mina on behalf of the Chairman of the Board, Sheikh Abdul-Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, the Secretary of the Board, Mr.Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi, revealed that an advance team would be deployed to each location to put necessary arrangements in place before the arrival of the pilgrims.

He hinted that all pilgrims from the State were getting set for the spiritual rites, which will commence on Monday, May 25, 2026.

The Chairman further disclosed that the pilgrims would depart Makkah for Mina on Sunday, May 24, 2026, and proceed to Arafat the following day.

“Alhamdulillahi, preparations for the much-awaited last five days of Hajj are in top gear. Our pilgrims are doing well. We held a series of lectures on how best to perform Hajj, delivered by erudite Islamic scholars, and I believe our pilgrims are now better informed.

“We equally organised a seven-day special prayer and recitation of the Holy Quran to seek Allah’s continuous guidance before, during and after Arafat, while the final session of the special prayer is scheduled to hold on the Day of Arafat.”

Sheikh Atere lauded the continued cooperation of the pilgrims and urged them to take advantage of the glorious Day of Arafat to pray for

themselves, their families, well-wishers, Oyo State, the entire Muslim ummah and an end to insecurity in Nigeria .

He also appreciated the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for his continuous support for the Board.

In separate lectures delivered by the Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Islamic Affairs, Alhaji (Imam) Abdul- Rasheed Abdul-  Azees, Islamic Scholars; Dr Ibrahim Adebolu and Dr Ibrahim Adelani gave detailed explanations on every stage of the spiritual rites .

The trio admonished the pilgrims not to engage in unnecessary activities during the period but abide by the instructions of the leadership of the Board.

Dr Adelani also admonished pilgrims not to  keep malice against anyone  but endeavor to reconcile with concerned individuals, saying that Islam encourages forgiveness, peace, unity and mutual understanding among believers.

Emphasizing that love for one’s Country is part of belief, Dr Abdul- Abdul- Rasheed, urged the pilgrims to pray for our dear Country and State for security and peace to reign.

A total of Nine-Hundred and Forty-Five pilgrims (945) from Oyo state have successfully completed their Umrah in Makkah in continuation of their religious obligations attributed to Hajj.

The last batch of the pilgrims who are currently in Medina are expected to join their counterparts in Makkah on Tuesday,12th May , 2026, for similar exercises.

The three batches received warmly by the representatives of the Saudi Arabian government performed Umrah with little or no stress under the tutelage of renowned scholars from the state and beyond.

Addressing the third batch of pilgrims before departing Medina for Makkah yesterday, the Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP , expressed concern over the attitudes and approach of some Nigerian pilgrims to Hajj exercises.

He emphasised that Nigerian pilgrims, particularly those from the southwest region, need to put aside social activities during hajj but focus solely on worshipping Allah, who made the journey possible for them.

He called on pilgrims from Oyo state to seek spiritual growth continually and rededicate themselves to the cause of Allah. He emphasised the need for the pilgrims to create time to rest and perform the required obligations in modest.

Sheikh Atere also warned against unnecessary movement during the day, considering the weather conditions of the host country and cities.

The Chairman also appreciated the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE for the tremendous support and others whose support and advice have significantly contributed to the progress and success recorded so far .

Ninety -one pilgrims, led by the Chairman of the Board , Sheikh Atere are expected to be in Makkah tomorrow to make a total of One-Thousand and thirty -six pilgrims participating in 2026 Hajj from Oyo state, a figure that put the state in the forefront among the participating states from the south-west.

…as Final Batch Departs for Medina Ahead of Makkah Trip Tomorrow

A total of Nine-Hundred and Forty-Five pilgrims (945) from Oyo state have successfully completed their Umrah in Makkah in continuation of their religious obligations attributed to Hajj.

The last batch of the pilgrims who are currently in Medina are expected to join their counterparts in Makkah on Tuesday,12th May , 2026, for similar exercises.

The three batches received warmly by the representatives of the Saudi Arabian government performed Umrah with little or no stress under the tutelage of renowned scholars from the state and beyond.

Addressing the third batch of pilgrims before departing Medina for Makkah yesterday, the Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP , expressed concern over the attitudes and approach of some Nigerian pilgrims to Hajj exercises.

He emphasised that Nigerian pilgrims, particularly those from the southwest region, need to put aside social activities during hajj but focus solely on worshipping Allah, who made the journey possible for them.

He called on pilgrims from Oyo state to seek spiritual growth continually and rededicate themselves to the cause of Allah. He emphasised the need for the pilgrims to create time to rest and perform the required obligations in modest.

Sheikh Atere also warned against unnecessary movement during the day, considering the weather conditions of the host country and cities.

The Chairman also appreciated the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE for the tremendous support and others whose support and advice have significantly contributed to the progress and success recorded so far .

Ninety -one pilgrims, led by the Chairman of the Board , Sheikh Atere are expected to be in Makkah tomorrow to make a total of One-Thousand and thirty -six pilgrims participating in 2026 Hajj from Oyo state, a figure that put the state in the forefront among the participating states from the south-west.

The first batch of 315 intending pilgrims from Oyo State have safely arrived in Medinah,  Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to commence the 2026 Hajj rites.

The pilgrims arrived at the holy city to begin the required religious activities as part of the Hajj rites.

They touched down at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday aboard an Air Peace flight at the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina.

The pilgrims, who were commended for their peaceful conduct from their point of departure at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, were led by board members,  including Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf Olayiwola Biznillah, Alhaji Amusat Ayuba Agboola, Alhaji (Imam) AbdulMajeed Olanase, Alhaji Daud Bolaji Afolabi, Alhaji Abdulrahmon Bakare Agbotomokekere, and the Secretary of the Board, Mr. Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi.

Speaking ahead of their departure in Lagos on behalf of the Chairman of the Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, the Secretary, Mr. Fasasi reassured the pilgrims and allayed their concerns about the journey and the tasks ahead.

He noted that necessary arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling stay for the pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He further disclosed that those who paid above the stipulated amount for the 2026 Hajj would soon receive their refunds any moment from now.

The first batch of 2026 Hajj pilgrims from Oyo State on Tuesday embarked on a visit to historic sites in the city of Medina as part of their ongoing spiritual activities in the Holy Land.

The pilgrims were divided into groups to ensure a clearer understanding of the historical and religious significance of each site visited.

The tour forms part of the spiritually enriching exercises traditionally undertaken by pilgrims during the Hajj period.

Sites visited during the excursion included Mount Uhud, Masjid Quba, Masjid Qiblatain, and Mazhar

Speaking on the significance of the visit, one of the coordinators, Hammed Adebayo, explained that the exercise aligns with the teachings and traditions of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) for those undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage.

He added that the Prophet encouraged pilgrims to observe at least two rak’ahs of prayer at Masjid Quba, noting that such acts form part of the spiritual benefits of the visit.

Adebayo also advised the pilgrims to make necessary sacrifices for a rewarding Hajj experience and to adhere strictly to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in all their activities.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

The first batch of 315 intending pilgrims from Oyo State have safely arrived in Medinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to commence the 2026 Hajj rites.

The pilgrims arrived at the holy city to begin the required religious activities as part of the Hajj rites.

They touched down at about 9:00 a.m. on Monday aboard an Air Peace flight at the Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina.

The pilgrims, who were commended for their peaceful conduct from their point of departure at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, were led by board members, including Alhaji Rasheed Yusuf Olayiwola Biznillah, Alhaji Amusat Ayuba Agboola, Alhaji (Imam) AbdulMajeed Olanase, Alhaji Daud Bolaji Afolabi, Alhaji Abdulrahmon Bakare Agbotomokekere, and the Secretary of the Board, Mr. Kamorudeen Babatunde Fasasi.

Speaking ahead of their departure in Lagos on behalf of the Chairman of the Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, the Secretary, Mr. Fasasi reassured the pilgrims and allayed their concerns about the journey and the tasks ahead.

He noted that necessary arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling stay for the pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

He further disclosed that those who paid above the stipulated amount for the 2026 Hajj would soon receive their refunds any moment from now.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,

Commissioner for Information,

Oyo State.

.holds Fourth Orientation Programme

The Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has finalized its vaccination exercise for the 2026 Hajj-intending pilgrims from the state, aimed at protecting them against contagious diseases during their stay in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia and beyond.

The Board also held its fourth phase of the periodic education and orientation programme for the intending pilgrims in Ibadan , Oyo , Ogbomoso, Iseyin and Saki zones on Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.

The Chairman of the Board, Shiekh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, JP, while addressing the intending pilgrims, affirmed that the Board would not relent in its efforts to expose them to the rudiments of Hajj and required knowledge through constant orientation and sensitization.

He explained that preparation for the holy journey is in top gear, urging them to be alert for updates from the Board, including the date for the annual farewell ceremony and airlift schedule.

Taking them through various stages and mandatory aspects of Hajj, Shiekh Atere admonished the intending pilgrims to take advantage of the opportunities and benefits attributed to Hajj by participating in every stage of the religious ritual without a divided mind.

Speaking on the vaccination exercise, Medical Expert, Mrs. Mujidat Salam of the Federal Ministry of Health, explained that the vaccines administered on the intending pilgrims are meant to make their immune systems stronger, prevent them from getting water-related diseases, and enable them to adapt to high-temperature areas, such as Saudi Arabia.

Reiterating the importance of prevention in maintaining good health status, Mrs. Salam urged the intending pilgrims to be watchful and embrace preventive measures as they prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage.

Vaccines administered during the exercise were Yellow Fever Vaccine (YF) , Cerebrospinal Meningitis Vaccine ( CSM) Influenza and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) .