From Moshood Karim
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended his heartfelt support and well-wishes to the 206 intending pilgrims from the State who are set to embark on the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, addressed the pilgrims during a farewell ceremony organised by the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Benin City, the State capital.
In his message, Governor Okpebhole commended the Board for what he described as “historic preparations,” lauding their commitment and professionalism in ensuring a seamless coordination of the spiritual journey.
“As you prepare to embark on this sacred journey, I urge you to carry with you the values that define us as a people,” said Ikhilor, delivering the Governor’s speech. “Be peaceful and disciplined. At all times, represent our State with dignity and uphold the laws and customs of the host nation. Let your conduct reflect the teachings of your faith and bring honour to our land.”
He further encouraged the pilgrims to offer prayers not just for their families but also for the continued peace, unity, and development of Edo State and Nigeria. “May your pilgrimage be safe, spiritually fulfilling and accepted,” he concluded.
The Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Muhammad Musa Uduimoh, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support. According to him, the financial, logistical and moral backing from the state government has been instrumental in ensuring that the 2025 Hajj preparations have proceeded without setbacks.
Mallam Uduimoh announced that the pilgrims are scheduled to be airlifted to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, 14th May 2025. He reassured stakeholders that all arrangements for transportation, accommodation and welfare have been finalised.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Eranga AbdulKabir MuhammadKabir, provided a breakdown of the pilgrims, revealing that 120 of them are male and 86 female.
Representing the intending pilgrims, the Amir Hajj and leader of the Edo State delegation, His Royal Highness Mallam Ali Sulayman, the Oghieaga of Ibvie in Etsako East Local Government Area, conveyed the appreciation of the pilgrims to the state government. He praised Governor Okpebhole for his efforts in promoting religious harmony and for his tangible support towards the success of the pilgrimage.
“The Governor’s commitment to religious inclusion and harmony in Edo State is highly commendable,” the royal father stated. He also assured the government that this year’s Hajj would be hitch-free and better organised.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage remains one of the five pillars of Islam and attracts millions of Muslims globally to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. With Edo State’s comprehensive preparations and governmental support, the 2025 Hajj promises to be a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for the State’s contingent.
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