* Warns against misplaced priorities, cautions against turning Hajj into a waste of resources
* Hajj Mabrur marks twenty five years of excellence with 2026 orientation programme
The Deputy Registrar of Yaba College of Technology, Sheikh Saeed Salman, has urged intending pilgrims to prioritise spiritual readiness and sincerity of purpose as the most critical elements for a successful Hajj, warning that without proper preparation the sacred journey could become “a waste of resources rather than a transformative act of worship.”
Sheikh Salman spoke at the Hajj seminar organised by Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited as part of its first phase preparations for the 2026 pilgrimage.
Muslim News gathered that the seminar, held on Sunday, April 12 at the Islamic Center of University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos, also coincided with the company’s twenty five years of excellence in Hajj operations in Nigeria, marking its growth into one of the leading service providers in the country.
The company continues to enjoy impressive patronage from intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise, reflecting the confidence many Muslims repose in its services, while the second phase of the seminar will continue next week Sunday, April 19.
Misplaced priorities among pilgrims
The versatile Muslim scholar said many Muslims embark on the pilgrimage with misplaced priorities, seeking social recognition instead of divine reward.
“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,” he said.
The Mudir of Madrasat Sahwatul Islamiyyah stressed that Hajj is not merely a physical journey but a deeply spiritual obligation that requires knowledge and adequate preparation.
He noted that Islam teaches that no act of worship should be carried out without understanding its rulings, lamenting that some pilgrims focus more on acquiring titles such as Alhaji or Alhaja rather than fulfilling the spiritual essence of the exercise.
Seminar aims to correct misconceptions
Explaining the rationale behind the seminar, Sheikh Salman said the theme, preparation for pilgrimage, was designed to correct misconceptions and 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 stated.
Hajj as a core pillar of Islam
Highlighting the significance of Hajj, he described it as one of the five pillars of Islam, obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically capable.
“It is a command from Allah and a central component of a believer’s life. There is no other place in the world where Hajj can be performed,” he said.
The Deputy Registrar also referenced prophetic traditions to emphasise that while Muslims are encouraged to visit the sacred house of Allah, the pilgrimage is not mandated every year in order to avoid hardship.
Spiritual readiness remains central
On preparation, Sheikh Salman identified spiritual readiness as the foundation of a successful Hajj. “Only Allah knows what is in our hearts. Whoever has any intention other than to serve Allah will not be rewarded,” he said, urging participants to renew their intentions and make worship their primary objective.
He stressed the need for sincere repentance, advising pilgrims to seek forgiveness and cleanse themselves of pride and showmanship. “We should not render our Hajj void with avoidable frivolities,” he warned.
Knowledge and guidance essential
Sheikh Salman also highlighted the importance of intellectual preparation, encouraging pilgrims to study the rites of Hajj, understand its types and seek knowledge from credible scholars.
According to him, ignorance of the rules could lead to costly mistakes that may affect the validity of the pilgrimage.
Health and physical fitness important
On physical and medical readiness, he advised intending pilgrims to take their health seriously, noting that the weather conditions in Saudi Arabia differ from those in Nigeria. He recommended regular exercise, adequate rest and proper medical consultation, especially for those on medication.
Good character and patience required
Sheikh Salman further underscored the importance of good character, describing patience, tolerance and forbearance as essential virtues for pilgrims who will interact with people from different backgrounds. “You will meet people from all parts of the world. You must learn to overlook mistakes and maintain unity,” he said.
Lawful wealth and righteous company
Speaking on material preparation, he urged participants to reflect on the sources of their wealth. “Allah is pure and accepts only that which is pure,” he said, encouraging pilgrims to associate with righteous companions who will support them in maintaining discipline throughout the journey.
In his concluding remarks, Sheikh Saeed Salman described Hajj as a pathway to self reformation and spiritual elevation for those who approach it with sincerity and proper preparation. He prayed for divine guidance and protection for all intending pilgrims, expressing hope that their journey would be accepted as an act of true devotion.
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