Joel Osaigbovo Aluge, Reporting, Benin City
The Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board today May 4 2024 commenced a two-day Hajj orientation and inoculation programme for intending pilgrims in Edo North
The intending Hajj pilgrims are vaccinated is crucial for their health and safety, especially given the ongoing global health situation. It’s a proactive step towards a safer pilgrimage experience.
Providing informative lectures on the do’s and don’t of Hajj is essential for ensuring that pilgrims are well-prepared for their spiritual journey. Mallam Harun Umar’s contributions are valuable in guiding them through this significant experience.
Sheikh Ibrahim Oyarekhua’s emphasis on adequate preparation for the pilgrimage and the importance of taqwaa reflects a deep understanding of the spiritual aspect of Hajj. Such reminders are vital for pilgrims to approach the journey with reverence and mindfulness.
He underscored the mandatory vaccination requirement for all pilgrims before embarking on the journey, stressing the need to refrain from immoral behaviour and to maintain patience throughout the pilgrimage.
According to him, “I appeal to you all, we need your cooperation to make this Hajj a successful one. Let me also remind you that Hajj is not easy. We require patience from the beginning of the exercise to the end”
Highlighting efficient resource management of the board, Oyarekhua announced a refund of N80, 000 per pilgrim, which could be utilized for the ritual sacrifice (Hadayah) when the time arises.
“Every pilgrim who is going with Edo State to perform Hajj this year will have a refund of N80,000 each”
“Additionally, the Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) has been reduced from $800 to $500 , and the duration of stay in Medina has been shortened to four days to minimize costs”
In support of the initiative, Hon. Zubairu Dada Abubakar, Commissioner for the Ministry of Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, who is the first Ameerul Hajj urged intending pilgrims to exercise patience and adhere strictly to the directives provided by the authority, emphasizing the importance of compliance with established rules and regulations.
With the aim of fostering a smooth and spiritually enriching Hajj experience, the orientation programme seeks to equip pilgrims with the necessary knowledge and preparation for their journey of faith in the coming weeks.