Oyo 2026 Hajj: Makinde's Aide On Islamic Affairs Urges Pilgrims To Observe Strict Safety Guidelines

 

Oyo 2026 Hajj: Makinde's Aide On Islamic Affairs Urges Pilgrims To Observe Strict Safety Guidelines

The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Islamic Affairs, Imam (Dr.) AbdulRasheed Adewale AbdulAzeez, has called on Oyo State pilgrims to strictly adhere to safety and procedural guidelines ahead of the forthcoming Hajj exercise, stressing that compliance is essential for ensuring safety and the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage rites.

In a message congratulating Oyo State Muslims at home and abroad on the sighting of the moon for Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH — the last month of the Islamic calendar — Imam AbdulAzeez reminded pilgrims currently in Mecca that the main purpose of their journey to Saudi Arabia is drawing near and that they should adequately prepare for it.

“I congratulate all of us on the sighting of the moon, marking the beginning of the holy month of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH. This signifies that we are now in the month of Hajj, during which we will perform the sacred rites. You should all remember that this is the primary reason we are here.

“To ensure a successful Hajj exercise, we must all comply with the laid-down rules and regulations of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (OYSPWB), and other relevant authorities,” he said.

According to the S A, “The sighting of the moon means we should all prepare for the real task ahead in Mecca. This begins with strict compliance with the guidelines set by the authorities to prevent fatigue, reduce congestion, and maintain order at the various holy sites we will visit.”

“I want to advise you to use this period to rest and prepare yourselves for the exercise. Hajj involves rigorous activities and is not a recreational trip. Therefore, remain indoors during the daytime as much as possible and avoid excessive exposure to the sun so that you can stay healthy and fit for the main exercise,” Imam. AbdulAzeez added.

He reassured pilgrims that the Oyo State Government, through the State Pilgrims Welfare Board, bn led by Sheikh Hashim Olamide Atere, remains committed to supporting all pilgrims to ensure a safe, orderly, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.

Governor Makinde’s Aide Charges Oyo Pilgrims To Reflect True Values Of Islam In Mecca

The Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, on Islamic Affairs, Imam (Dr.) Abdrasheed Adewale Abdulazeez, has charged Oyo State pilgrims in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to reflect the true values of Islam by embracing tolerance and upholding the spirit of brotherhood.

Dr. Abdulazeez stated this on Saturday, 16 May 2026, while addressing a cross-section of pilgrims at the Madinat Al-Zahraa Mosque in Mecca. He noted that practising these virtues reflects the true teachings of Islam and makes the pilgrimage a meaningful experience for all.

The Special Adviser added that unity among pilgrims strengthens the global Muslim community and fosters a stronger sense of solidarity and compassion.

“We are grateful to Allah for counting us among those privileged to participate in this year’s Hajj. It is not because we are better than other Muslims or because we are special; it is purely by Allah’s grace and calling.

“We may have come from different towns and villages across Oyo State, but we are here for the same purpose. This purpose requires us to live together with a high level of cooperation and tolerance. The spirit of Hajj encourages pilgrims to help one another, share resources, and show kindness irrespective of differences in customs and ways of thinking. These lessons can inspire greater harmony and cooperation throughout the world,” Dr. Abdulazeez stated.

The Governor’s aide also commended the efforts of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, particularly the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (OYSPWB), Dr. Hasheem Mogaji Atere, for ensuring the successful airlift of pilgrims from Nigeria to Saudi Arabia, as well as providing conducive accommodation and adequate welfare packages for pilgrims in both Madinah and Mecca.

He equally lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering support for the Board and the pilgrims, noting that such support has continued to make Oyo State stand out among states participating in Hajj operations in Nigeria.

“We are blessed to have a Governor like Seyi Makinde in Oyo State. He is an achiever who is fair to adherents of all religions. Even before the pilgrimage, he provided the necessary resources for the Board to succeed, and this has resulted in the quality welfare packages Oyo pilgrims are enjoying in Saudi Arabia.

“So, if you are looking for a truly non-tribalistic politician, come to Oyo State. Governor Seyi Makinde is that leader,” Dr. Abdulazeez concluded.

Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board Chairman Congratulates Muslims On Dhul Hijjah Moon Sighting.

 

Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board Chairman Congratulates Muslims On Dhul Hijjah Moon Sighting.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mogaji (Dr.) Haseem Atere, has congratulated Muslims across the world on the successful sighting of the moon signaling the commencement of Dhul Hijjah 1447AH, describing the period as sacred and spiritually significant for the Muslim Ummah.

In a statement issued on Sunday, 17th May 2026, Dr. Atere urged Muslim faithful to take advantage of the holy month to intensify prayers, supplications, and acts of worship for peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria and Oyo State in particular. He noted that Dhul Hijjah remains one of the most important months in Islam, especially for pilgrims performing the holy Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Chairman specifically enjoined all Oyo State pilgrims currently in Mecca to begin adequate preparations for the real Hajj exercise, urging them to remain disciplined, patient, and committed to the rules and guidelines laid down by Saudi authorities and officials of the Pilgrims Welfare Board. He advised them to focus on the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage and avoid distractions capable of affecting their worship.

"We thank Allah who has made it easy for us to see the last month of Islamic Calendar. I want to use this period to remind all pilgrims to continue to uphold the image of Oyo State and Nigeria by demonstrating good conduct, honesty, unity, and mutual respect throughout their stay in the Holy Land. Also, let's remain faithful and ready for the task ahead because proper preparation and obedience to instructions are essential for the successful performance of Hajj rites", submitted Dr. Atere

He prayed for Allah’s guidance, protection, and acceptance of the prayers and sacrifices of all Muslim faithful during the holy period. Dr. Atere further wished all Oyo State pilgrims a successful, hitch-free, and spiritually rewarding Hajj exercise.

Oyo Pilgrim Earns Commendation for Returning Lost $400 and 80 Riyadh

 Oyo Pilgrim Earns Commendation for Returning Lost $400 and 80 Riyadh

The Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Dr. Hasheem Atere, has commended an Oyo State pilgrim, Alhaji Dauda Faeez Abimbola, for demonstrating honesty and integrity after finding and returning the sum of four hundred dollars and eighty Riyadh belonging to an FCT pilgrim, Usman Abubakar, on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Dr. Atere described the action of Alhaji Abimbola as worthy of emulation, noting that his conduct reflects the true teachings of Islam and the moral values expected of pilgrims during the holy pilgrimage. He said the gesture has not only brought honour to Oyo State but has also projected Nigeria positively among pilgrims from different parts of the world.

"We commend the good gesture of Alhaji Abimbola to have proved to the world that we are people of integrity. His decision to return the lost money without hesitation demonstrates that integrity still exists in society. I therefore encouraged other pilgrims to emulate these exemplary behaviour because acts of honesty strengthen unity, trust, and mutual respect among pilgrims during the spiritual exercise", stated Mogaji Atere.

According to the Chairman, honesty, sincerity, and fear of God remain essential virtues every pilgrim must uphold throughout the pilgrimage exercise. He stressed that pilgrims are ambassadors of their states and the country at large, urging them to always conduct themselves in a peaceful, disciplined, and trustworthy manner wherever they find themselves.

Dr. Atere also appealed to all pilgrims from Oyo State and Nigeria in general to remain law-abiding, truthful, and committed to the principles of fairness and accountability throughout their stay in the Holy Land. He prayed for a successful and hitch-free pilgrimage for all participants and urged them to continue to be good ambassadors of their families, states, and the nation.

New Era Begins: Maikaba Opens Flying Eagles Camp with 35 Invitees

 

Maikaba invites 35 players to camp as Flying Eagles begin preparations for WAFU B tourney

Head Coach Abdu Maikaba has called 35 players to the camp of Nigeria’s U20 boys, Flying Eagles, as the team begins a new life under the gaffer, and as preparations commence ahead of the WAFU B U20 Championship that Cote d’Ivoire will in the month of July.

 

In the list are three goalkeepers, 10 defenders, 11 midfielders and 11 forwards.

 

All invited players are expected to report to camp in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja on Saturday, 16th May.

 

PLAYERS INVITED TO FLYING EAGLES’ CAMP FOR WAFU B U20 CHAMPIONSHIP:

 

Goalkeepers: Clinton Lawani (Sporting Lagos); Abubakar Rufai (NK-Istra 1961(Croatia); Uchechukwu Aloysius (Akwa United)  

Defenders: Ayinla Olayomi (Warri Wolves); Abubakar Aliyu (Wikki Tourists); Favour Nkwocha (Morak FC); Wahab Bolanle Musa (FC Malaga, Spain); Bonaventure Chiemela (Inter Lagos); Gamagira Umar Suleman (Ranchers Bees); Mathias Azi Yakubu (GBS); Mutari Momoh (NK-Istra 1961, Croatia); Abdulaziz Musa Ndaman (Mavlon FC); Godwin Samuel (Ikon Allah FC)   

Midfielders: Victor Samuel (Sporting Lagos); Oraro Apine (Warri Wolves); Sale Abdulrashid (Kryubar FC, Ukraine); Sa’ad Tijjani (Barau FC); Imran Ahmad (Kano Pillars); Peres Jerem (P Sports); Ayeni Samson (Stormers FC); Habila Simeon Sulai (GBS); Simon Karshe Cletus (FC Rijeka, Croatia); Auwalu Mohammed (Bichi First FC); Ibrahim Yakubu (Turbo Touch)

Forwards: Abba Dalli (Katsina United); Prince Columbus (Forster Academy); Goodluck Angel (P Sports); Imrana Mohammed (FC Alaves, Spain); Adamu Hussaini (Barau FC); Seun Akanji (Sporting Lagos); Shamsudeen Adamu Abdullahi (Capital City FC); Alex Leme (Sporting Lagos); Ezekiel Oguchukwu (Mavlon FC); Mus’ab Suleiman (Footwork FC); Peter Pam Davou (Vitkovice, Czech Republic)