By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, has said that understanding the weather condition in Saudi Arabia and knowing how to cope with it are critical to the success and safety of pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj exercise.
Mallam Uduimoh stated this recently in Benin City while addressing intending pilgrims from Edo State ahead of their departure to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
According to him, the high temperature being experienced in the Holy Land requires pilgrims to take health precautions seriously in order to avoid heat exhaustion and related health challenges during the spiritual exercise.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir, advised intending pilgrims to prioritise their health and safety while performing Hajj rites.
He urged them to drink plenty of fluids, use light-coloured umbrellas, and get adequate rest, stressing that heat exhaustion could negatively affect their ability to perform the rites comfortably.
Muhammadkabir further cautioned pilgrims against direct exposure to sunlight and unnecessary movement during peak daytime hours when temperatures are usually very high.
The Executive Secretary noted that compliance with health and safety guidelines issued by NAHCON and Saudi authorities would go a long way in ensuring a smooth and successful Hajj exercise for Edo pilgrims.
As.part of the preparation, travel bags were also distributed to the intending pilgrims to support their journey and ease their movement throughout the journey.
The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board reassured intending pilgrims of its commitment to their welfare and safety throughout the pilgrimage period.
