Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has charged intending pilgrims from the state to conduct themselves responsibly and serve as worthy ambassadors of Edo State and Nigeria as 95 pilgrims prepare to depart for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

The governor gave the charge on Saturday during a farewell ceremony held at the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board office in Benin City. The event attracted Islamic clerics, traditional rulers and leaders of various Muslim organisations who gathered to offer prayers for a successful pilgrimage.

Representing the governor at the ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., said the Okpebholo administration remains committed to supporting the Muslim community and ensuring the welfare of Edo pilgrims throughout the Hajj exercise.

Ikhilor stated that the governor’s inclusive leadership style has continued to strengthen the relationship between the state government and the Muslim community in Edo State.

“I had to take time to mention some of those who are present to show the sense of belonging that the governor, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, has for the Muslim community and how he has integrated the Muslim community in the affairs of the state,” he said.

The SSG commended the conduct of Edo pilgrims during previous Hajj exercises, noting that the Edo camp in Saudi Arabia became a model for other states due to the quality of welfare and feeding arrangements provided for pilgrims.

According to him, pilgrims and officials from several states attested to the hospitality at the Edo camp, particularly the availability of African delicacies, which he described as uncommon during Hajj operations.

Ikhilor, however, acknowledged challenges encountered during preparations for this year’s pilgrimage, especially the inability of many registered pilgrims to complete their travel processes on time.

He attributed the development to late preparations by intending pilgrims, describing the issue as a nationwide challenge. He added that the state government was already engaging relevant federal authorities to improve coordination for future exercises.

He further urged the pilgrims to obey the rules and regulations of Saudi authorities and avoid actions capable of tarnishing the image of Edo State and Nigeria.

“We should conduct ourselves properly and not engage in anything that will bring a bad reputation to the state or to our country, the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

Ikhilor also advised the pilgrims to remain united throughout the pilgrimage and avoid separating themselves from their designated groups.

In his remarks, the Amirul Hajj and Oghieaga of Ivbie, HRH Mallam Ali D. Sulayman, urged the intending pilgrims to reciprocate the government’s support through exemplary conduct in the holy land.

“The only way to show gratitude for the support that the government has given is to be of good conduct and ambassadors to Edo State,” he said, while encouraging them to improve on last year’s performance.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Musa Muhammad Uduimoh, disclosed that although 351 pilgrims initially registered with the board, only 95 pilgrims would eventually participate in the 2026 Hajj exercise.

According to him, the contingent comprises 45 females and 50 males, including officials.

Uduimoh appealed to the state government to provide the board with mobility and operational support, noting that officials currently rely on personal vehicles for assignments.

He also lamented the absence of an ambulance and official vehicles for Edo pilgrims in the holy land, unlike the situation in many other states.

“Anytime we have the need, we run to a neighbouring state,” he said while appealing for government intervention.

The statement was signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.