AUCHI – Intending pilgrims from Edo State have commended the state government for reappointing His Royal Highness, Mallam Ali Sulayman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie, as Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage exercise, describing the decision as deserving and widely welcomed by pilgrims across the state.
The commendation came during the final screening exercise for intending pilgrims ahead of their departure to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where participants lauded the government for retaining what they described as experienced and reliable leadership for the exercise.
Speaking during the screening in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area, one of the intending pilgrims, Mallam Murtala Muhammad Kabir, said the reappointment had further boosted the confidence of pilgrims in the success of the 2026 Hajj operation.
According to him, the Oghieaga has consistently demonstrated humility, accessibility and a strong sense of responsibility in the discharge of his duties, qualities that have contributed significantly to the smooth coordination of Hajj activities in Edo State.
The pilgrims particularly praised the Amirul Hajj for personally attending the screening exercise and directly interacting with intending pilgrims, noting that his presence reflected genuine concern for their welfare and spiritual preparedness.
They stated that beyond supervising the exercise, he also ensured that pilgrims were adequately guided on the necessary procedures and official requirements needed for a smooth and hitch-free pilgrimage.
The intending pilgrims further recalled his performance during the previous Hajj exercise, which they described as one of the most successful and best coordinated pilgrimages undertaken by Edo State in recent years.
According to them, the achievement was made possible through his leadership qualities, discipline and administrative experience.
They also commended the formal presentation of the 2025 Hajj report to Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, describing the gesture as a demonstration of transparency, accountability and due process.
The pilgrims expressed optimism that the 2026 Hajj exercise would record greater success under the leadership of the Oghieaga and prayed for Allah’s guidance, wisdom and protection upon him throughout the spiritual exercise.
