* Hajj Mabrur records strong patronage as it marks 25 years of operations in Nigeria
* We ensured committed pilgrims were not left behind despite Saudi policies, says MD
The first phase of the Hajj seminar for intending pilgrims preparing for the 2026 pilgrimage has concluded in Lagos with strong calls for spiritual sincerity, medical fitness, and strict adherence to travel regulations as essential components of a successful Hajj journey.
The seminar, organised by Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited, was held on Sunday, April 12 at the Islamic Center of University of Lagos, Akoka. It also marked part of the company’s twenty five years of Hajj operations in Nigeria, a milestone that has positioned it among leading service providers in the sector.
Muslim News gathered that the agency recorded an encouraging turnout of intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise, reflecting sustained trust in its services, while the second phase of the orientation programme is scheduled to continue on Sunday, April 19.
Spiritual readiness as foundation of Hajj
Speaking at the seminar, the Deputy Registrar of Yaba College of Technology, Sheikh Saeed Salman, urged intending pilgrims to prioritise sincerity of intention and spiritual preparation, warning that Hajj without proper readiness could become “a waste of resources rather than a transformative act of worship.”
He said many Muslims embark on pilgrimage with misplaced priorities, focusing on social recognition rather than divine reward.
According to him, “Many wish to perform Hajj, but only a few are granted the opportunity. Those who are chosen must maximise it through proper understanding and devotion.”
Sheikh Salman stressed that Hajj is not merely a physical journey but a profound act of worship that requires knowledge, discipline, and sincerity.
He explained that the seminar was designed to correct misconceptions surrounding the pilgrimage and to properly guide intending pilgrims. “If pilgrims attach due importance to what we are discussing, the journey will not only be seamless, it will also be fulfilling and rewarding,” he said.
The respected Muslim scholar further described Hajj as one of the five pillars of Islam, obligatory for those who are financially and physically capable, noting that it is a divine command with no alternative place of performance.
Sheikh Salman also emphasised repentance, sincerity, and avoidance of showmanship, warning pilgrims not to allow pride or frivolity to invalidate their spiritual efforts.
On preparation, he highlighted intellectual readiness through study and consultation with scholars, physical and medical fitness, good character, patience, lawful earnings, and association with righteous companions as key requirements for a successful pilgrimage.
Health experts warn against neglecting medical fitness
A major highlight of the seminar was a health sensitisation lecture by Dr Yusuf Adebowale, who warned that medical fitness is crucial for pilgrims to fully participate in the rites of Hajj.
He said, “Staying healthy is paramount. There is nothing we can do if we are medically unfit even for basic acts of worship. Sound health is one of the favours that people often take for granted.”
Dr Adebowale advised regular monitoring of blood pressure, describing hypertension as a silent killer that must be properly managed rather than ignored. He also urged diabetic pilgrims to strictly adhere to medical instructions.
He further called for proper kidney care due to the risk of dehydration in Saudi Arabia’s hot climate, recommending comprehensive medical checkups before travel.
The doctor advised pilgrims to engage in regular exercise, avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine, energy drinks, and self medication, while also ensuring adequate water intake.
He also urged ulcer and asthma patients to take special precautions and complete required vaccinations before departure.
Immigration officials stress compliance and documentation
Speaking on immigration procedures, DSI Shafi Bilesanmi advised pilgrims to ensure all travel documents are properly processed and verified before departure.
He said, “Whoever is preparing for Hajj should get necessary documentation done. I believe everyone here has their passport. Ask questions when you do not understand something and comply with instructions.”
He warned against accepting luggage from strangers, stressing that pilgrims must avoid actions that could expose them to legal or security risks.
DSI Bilesanmi also urged full cooperation with immigration officials in Saudi Arabia, noting that regulations there differ from those in Nigeria.
Pilgrims were further advised to keep communication devices charged and remain in contact with their tour operators throughout the journey.
Travel arrangements and operational guidance
The Operations Manager of Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited, Alhaji Abdul Hameed Oyinlola, reminded pilgrims to arrive at the airport with all required documents, including valid passports, Hajj visas, travel tickets, and yellow cards.
He disclosed that pilgrims would travel via Emirates Airlines and Turkish Airlines from Lagos and Abuja respectively, and confirmed that visa processing is electronic, urging those yet to receive theirs to contact the company promptly.
Company reflects on challenges
Earlier in his welcome address, the Managing Director of the company, Alhaji Abdulhamid Solate, expressed gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to commence the 2026 Hajj orientation programme, noting that the company is celebrating twenty five years of service in Hajj operations.
He said the company had operated for over two decades, except during the COVID nineteen pandemic, making the upcoming exercise its twenty fourth operational Hajj season.
Alhaji Solate explained that changing Saudi policies, early payment deadlines, and financial constraints affected planning, but the company made efforts to ensure committed pilgrims were not left behind.
He said, “This year is different because of policy changes and quota reduction. We had to source funds to support pilgrims who had committed. Eventually, our quota was adjusted, but not everyone could be accommodated.”
He confirmed that a significant number of pilgrims would be participating this year, describing them as fortunate beneficiaries of the company’s sustained commitment despite the limited allocation.
He also noted that Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited was established under The Muslim Congress (TMC) to improve Hajj operations and ensure proper service delivery, adding that the organisation remains committed to facilitating a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
The seminar ended with prayers for divine acceptance of the Hajj and successful completion of the 2026 pilgrimage exercise, with organisers urging pilgrims to strictly adhere to all guidelines as preparations continue for the second phase next week.
Second phase seminar compulsory for intending pilgrims
Speaking on the upcoming second phase seminar for intending pilgrims, the Business Development Officer, Alhaji Monsur Adebayo, described it as a compulsory session designed to further prepare participants for a spiritually rewarding pilgrimage.
He said many people intended to perform Hajj but were not given the opportunity, urging the pilgrims to show gratitude and remain steadfast in their preparation.
Alhaji Adebayo noted that the seminar would include practical demonstrations of Umrah and Hajj rites, delivered step by step in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
He said the training would also include a jurisprudence session aimed at guiding pilgrims on correct practices and protecting them from innovations that are not based on Islamic teachings.
According to him, there will also be a special prayer session dedicated to the intending pilgrims, their families, and the wider Muslim community.
He stressed that attendance is compulsory and urged intending pilgrims to come along with their family members so they can also benefit from the knowledge and guidance being shared.
Alhaji Adebayo advised pilgrims to arrive punctually and come prepared with their Hajj manuals and writing materials, describing knowledge based preparation as an essential part of readiness for the pilgrimage.
The Business Development Officer also encouraged participants to come with food and drinks to host guests and scholars, describing it as an act of charity and good conduct towards people of knowledge.
He prayed for the acceptance of their intentions and asked Allah to grant them a successful pilgrimage and accept it as Hajj Mabrur, which he described as a pilgrimage whose reward is nothing but Paradise.
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