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The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, declaring that the appointment was a deliberate and carefully considered decision, as he received both the 2025 Hajj report and the Edo State Musaabaqah report.
The announcement was made in government house when the governor received the delegation which was led by the Amirul Hajj, HRH, Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, the Oghieaga of Ivbies, who served as Amirul Hajj in 2025 and also led Edo State’s delegation to the Qur’anic recitation competition (Musaabaqah) in Maiduguri.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Okpebholo disclosed that the choice of the Amirul Hajj for 2026 was intentional, based on confidence in his leadership capacity and performance.
The governor while expressing satisfaction with his leadership style and track record said, “I said it would be good for you to be the Amirul Hajj; that is why I said you are the Amirul Hajj. I carefully selected you,”
He noted that Hajj remains a long-standing religious obligation that requires proper and early planning, stressing that delays in communication contributed to challenges experienced, particularly as preparations for the 2026 exercise progress.
“Hajj is not a new thing; it is something we grew up to meet. If we know it must happen, then we must plan ahead,” he said, adding that issues brought to government late, often limit timely intervention.
He expressed regret over the impact of late requests, which affected arrangements and contributed to a reduction in the number of pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.
Governor Okpebholo urged stakeholders to adopt proactive planning, recommending that preparations begin months ahead, including proper health assessments of intending pilgrims.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Muslim community in the state, assuring continued assistance for pilgrimage activities and peaceful coexistence.
He said, “I assure you we will continue to support the Muslim community in Edo State and continue to live together peacefully,”
The governor also revealed 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 would boost economic activities in the state.
The Amirul Hajj, HRH, Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, who earlier briefed the governor on the outcome of the 2025 Hajj exercise as well as Edo State’s participation in the national Musaabaqah, highlighted achievements and challenges ahead of the 2026 Hajj. He also commended the governor for his support during the 2025 Hajj, describing it as one of the most successful outings for the state.
He noted that government intervention ensured improved welfare for pilgrims, including better accommodation close to the Ka’aba, provision of Nigerian meals, and enhanced medical services.
According to him, the quality of Edo State’s arrangements attracted commendation, with officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and pilgrims from other regions benefiting from the facilities.
On the Musaabaqah, he highlighted Edo State’s participation in the national Qur’anic competition held in Maiduguri, noting that the delegation represented the state creditably.
Despite the successes recorded in 2025, the Amirul Hajj highlighted challenges affecting the forthcoming 2026 Hajj, particularly the impact of strict payment deadlines imposed by Saudi authorities.
He disclosed that over 351 intending pilgrims were affected, leaving only 93 able to participate in the 2026 exercise.
The Oghieaga of Ivbies also appreciated the governor for sponsoring 50 pilgrims, though noting that not all could be accommodated due to the payment constraints.
He further identified operational challenges facing the board, including inadequate electricity 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 departure hub for pilgrims from the South-South and South-East regions.
Other dignitaries present at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq; Chief of Staff to the governor, Hon Yakubu Musa; 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.