The Edo State Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board has announced the commencement of the airlift of intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage on May 14th, with an initial cohort of nearly 200 pilgrims scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia. The announcement was made by the board’s chairman, Mallam Musah Muhammad Uduimoh, during a press briefing held in Benin City on Sunday.
Uduimoh highlighted that while the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had allocated 412 slots to Edo State, the current number of registered pilgrims remains below 200. He urged eligible Edo citizens to seize the opportunity to fulfill this important religious obligation.
“All intending pilgrims across the three senatorial districts of Edo have undergone comprehensive screening to ensure they are fully prepared for the holy journey,” Uduimoh stated. This rigorous screening process aims to ensure the well-being and preparedness of the pilgrims for the physically and spiritually demanding pilgrimage.
The Chairman further assured the public that meticulous arrangements have been finalized to guarantee a seamless and comfortable Hajj experience for Edo pilgrims. These arrangements include accommodation strategically located near the Haram in Makkah.
“We are committed to addressing challenges faced in previous pilgrimages, especially with regard to accommodation,” Uduimoh affirmed, emphasizing the board’s dedication to learning from past experiences and improving the overall pilgrimage experience.
In addition to comfortable accommodation, the board has secured provisions for Nigerian meals through dedicated caterers and implemented robust transportation logistics to facilitate movement between holy sites. “Our pilgrims will be well taken care of from departure to return,” he assured, reiterating the board’s commitment to the welfare and safety of all Edo State pilgrims.