By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that not all intending pilgrims who paid or were sponsored for the 2026 Hajj exercise will be able to perform the pilgrimage, following a significant reduction in the state’s allocation by Saudi authorities.
In a statement issued to intending pilgrims, the Board disclosed that Edo State’s quota was reduced from 351 to just 93 slots, drastically affecting arrangements for this year’s Hajj.
The development, according to the Board, is part of a broader nationwide adjustment. Nigeria’s initial allocation of 66,000 pilgrims was later cut down to 40,200 by the Saudi authorities, leading to reductions across all states.
The Board emphasized that the situation is beyond the control of any state government, appealing to affected pilgrims for understanding and patience.
Chairman of the Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, assured that intending pilgrims who have already been captured on the NUSUK Masha’ir platform would be given priority consideration for the 2027 Hajj exercise, In sha Allah.
In the statement, the Executive Secretary, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir appealed to those affected to remain calm, noting that while the development is disappointing, it is ultimately an act of divine will.
The statement read, "We sincerely appeal to all affected intending pilgrims who had hoped to perform this year’s Hajj to please bear with us, as this situation is not within our control. We pray for your understanding and patience, trusting that Allah knows best and has better plans for us all,”
The Board further advised intending pilgrims to contact its Administrative Department to confirm the status of their visas for the 2026 Hajj exercise, urging them to seek further clarification where necessary.
