By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Intending pilgrims from Edo State have expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government for reappointing His Royal Highness, Mallam Ali D. Sulayman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage exercise, describing the decision as timely, deserving and widely accepted among pilgrims across the state.
The commendation came during the final screening exercise held for intending pilgrims ahead of their departure to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where many of them praised the government for entrusting the coordination of the sacred exercise to a leader they described as experienced, humble and committed to the welfare of pilgrims.
Speaking during the exercise, one of the intending pilgrims, Mallam Murtala Muhammad Kabir, said the reappointment of the Oghieaga had further strengthened the confidence of pilgrims in the success of the 2026 Hajj operation.
According to him, the Amirul Hajj has continued to distinguish himself through his simplicity, accessibility, calm disposition and sense of responsibility, qualities he noted have contributed immensely to the smooth coordination of Hajj activities in Edo State.
The pilgrims particularly commended the personal presence of the Oghieaga at the screening venue in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, noting that his direct interaction with pilgrims and supervision of the exercise reflected genuine concern for their welfare and spiritual preparedness.
They stated that beyond overseeing the screening process, the Amirul Hajj ensured that intending pilgrims were properly guided on all necessary procedures and official requirements to guarantee a hitch-free pilgrimage.
The intending pilgrims also recalled his performance during the previous Hajj exercise, which they described as one of the most successful and well-organized pilgrimages recorded by Edo State in recent years. They attributed the achievement to his leadership capacity, discipline and administrative experience.
They further praised the professionalism displayed through the formal presentation of the 2025 Hajj report to the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, noting that the gesture reflected transparency, accountability and respect for due process.
The pilgrims expressed optimism that the 2026 Hajj exercise would record even greater success under the leadership of the Oghieaga and prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom and protection upon him as he leads Edo pilgrims on the spiritual journey.
