By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State has intensified preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, securing accommodation, arranging catering services and completing documentation for intending pilgrims, as the Chief Imam of South Ibie Kingdom, Sheikh Amin Abass Abdulqadir Danesi commended government support to Muslims during Ramadan.
The Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, disclosed that the state government, through the board, is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a seamless and spiritually rewarding exercise for Edo pilgrims in the Holy Land.
Chairman Uduimoh who spoke at the Palace of the Ogieneni of Uzairue Kingdom during the ongoing Ramadan Tafsir said, “Inshallah, we have secured accommodation for our pilgrims, catering service have been arranged to ensure that local food is available for them throughout the period in the holy land. We have also completed upload of the information of the intending pilgrims to the NUSUK, following the guidelines of NAHCON and Saudi Hajj authority,”
According to him, the early arrangements underscore the commitment of the Edo State Government to improving the welfare and comfort of its pilgrims.
Uduimoh also urged intending pilgrims to use the Ramadan period for spiritual preparation.
While calling on Muslims to pray for Edo State and Nigeria, he said, “I urge all the intending pilgrims to use this opportunity to seek forgiveness and preparation for this spiritual journey to holy land, Makkah,” .
He appreciated the support of the state leadership, adding, “We pray Allah will continue to bless the state governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo for the support he has given so far. And the SSG, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq. We, at the board, we are doing our best to make our pilgrims very comfortable while in the holy land.”
In a related development, the Chief Imam of South Ibie Kingdom, Sheikh Amin Abass Abdulqadir Danesi, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for sustaining assistance to Muslims during Ramadan.
He described Ramadan as “a month for assistance, a month for giving, a month for being generous,” urging wealthy Muslims to support the less privileged.
While noting that the gesture reflects inclusive governance irrespective of religion, he said, "During the month of Ramadan, they usually send their aids and palliatives to the Muslim kings, the Muslim imams, and all the villages and communities,”
The cleric advised beneficiaries to distribute palliatives fairly when received and appealed for contributions towards the ongoing construction of the Muzdalifah Mosque in South Ibie.
