945 Oyo Pilgrims Arrive in Makkah for 2026 Hajj
945 Oyo Pilgrims Arrive in Makkah for 2026 Hajj
The pilgrims, who arrived in three batches, were warmly received by officials of the Saudi Arabian government and have since completed their Umrah rites with minimal stress under the guidance of Islamic scholars from Oyo State and other parts of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the final batch of Oyo pilgrims currently in Medina is expected to depart for Makkah on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, to continue the spiritual exercise.
Addressing the third batch of pilgrims before their departure from Medina to Makkah, the Chairman of the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere Hashim Olamide, urged Nigerian pilgrims to focus more on worship during the Hajj period rather than social engagements.
According to him, pilgrims, especially those from the South-West region of Nigeria, should devote themselves entirely to acts of worship and spiritual growth throughout their stay in the holy land.
He also advised the pilgrims to observe moderation, create adequate time for rest, and avoid unnecessary movement during the daytime due to the harsh weather conditions in Saudi Arabia.
Sheikh Atere further appreciated Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for his support towards the success of the pilgrimage exercise, alongside other stakeholders who contributed to the smooth coordination of the operation.
He disclosed that an additional 91 pilgrims, led by the chairman of the board, are expected to arrive in Makkah on Tuesday, bringing the total number of Oyo State pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj to 1,036.
The figure, according to the board, places Oyo State among the leading states in Hajj participation across the South-West region of Nigeria.
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