* Imam emphasises adherence to Hajj rites, unity among intending pilgrims
One of the leading tour operators in Nigeria, Hamdalillahi Travels Limited, has announced that the airlifting of its pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj will commence on Thursday, May 14, as the company intensifies preparations and urges intending pilgrims to uphold patience, discipline, and strict compliance with Hajj guidelines.
The disclosure was made during the company’s pre-Hajj 2026 seminar held on Sunday, May 3, at No. 69 Ayangburen Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State, where prospective pilgrims were sensitised on the spiritual, practical, and regulatory aspects of the pilgrimage.
Speaking at the seminar, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company, Alhaji Rasheed Adekunle, said all necessary arrangements, including accommodation, visas, flight tickets, and medical screenings, had been concluded ahead of the pilgrimage.
“We are fully prepared and ready for Hajj 2026. All arrangements have been put in place, and we are now at the departure stage. Airlifting of our pilgrims will begin from May 14,” he said.
Alhaji Adekunle, who is also the National Secretary of the Hajj and Umrah Tour Operators Association of Nigeria, noted that the seminar was organised to educate pilgrims on the rites of Hajj and the dos and don’ts in line with Saudi Arabian regulations.
He added that the company, established in 2008 and licensed in 2018, has continued to record steady growth, describing its journey as one guided by faith and commitment to quality service.
“With the help of Almighty Allah, it has been a journey of faith, and we thank Him for the progress we have made since inception,” he said.
Imam emphasises adherence to Hajj rites,
Earlier in his lecture, the Chief Imam of Anwar Islamic Central Mosque, Agbele, Ikorodu, Imam Abdulhameed Oduntan, urged intending pilgrims to approach Hajj with sincerity and diligence, stressing that although the pilgrimage can be performed multiple times, only one is obligatory.
“One can go to Hajj countless times if one has the means, but only one is compulsory. That is why it must be done properly and in accordance with the rules for it to be accepted by Allah,” he said.
The respected Muslim scholar emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among pilgrims, noting that Hajj is a collective exercise that requires mutual support and understanding.
“Assist one another where necessary, accommodate each other, and submit yourselves to Allah irrespective of your status,” he advised.
He also urged pilgrims to remain patient throughout the exercise and to report any challenges to their tour guides rather than reacting negatively.
“If you encounter anything unpleasant during Hajj, exercise patience and inform your tour guides for necessary corrections,” he said.
Imam Oduntan further advised first-time pilgrims and returning participants to strictly follow the guidance of their tour operators to ensure compliance with established rules and procedures.
He concluded with prayers for a successful Hajj and the safe return of all pilgrims.
The seminar featured detailed guidance on Hajj rites, spiritual preparedness, and regulatory compliance, reinforcing the message that the pilgrimage is an act of worship that requires discipline, patience, and total submission to Allah.
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