By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Monday embarked on visits to some of Islam's most significant historical sites in Makkah as they await the commencement of their return journey to Nigeria.
The educational and spiritual tour was led by the Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, alongside the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Eranga Abdulkabir Muhammadkabir.
Among the sites visited were the Cave of Hira, where Prophet Muhammad (SAW) received the first revelation of the Holy Qur'an; the Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet and his companion sought refuge while migrating from Makkah to Madinah; the site where Prophet Ibrahim (AS) prepared to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), in obedience to Allah's command before a ram was provided as a substitute; and Jabal Al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy) in Arafat, one of the most important landmarks associated with the Hajj pilgrimage.
Speaking during the tour, Mallam Uduimoh emphasized the importance of exposing pilgrims to the rich history of Islam and the sacrifices made by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and other prophets in establishing and propagating the religion.
He said, "It is important to visit these places so as to appreciate the efforts made by Prophet Muhammad in establishing the religion,"
He added that the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board remains committed to providing pilgrims with a comprehensive Hajj experience beyond the core rites of the pilgrimage.
The chairman stated, "For us, we want to ensure that our pilgrims are exposed to everything they need to do and know because we are determined to make a difference,"
The pilgrims expressed appreciation to the board for organizing the visits, describing the experience as both enlightening and spiritually rewarding.
The tour formed part of activities lined up for the pilgrims following the completion of the major Hajj rites and before their scheduled departure from Saudi Arabia.
