Hajj 2026: Lagos pilgrims tour Makkah’s historical sites

About 800 Lagos State pilgrims residing in House 1 have begun pre-Hajj ziyarah of historical sites in Makkah as part of the itinerary organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for the 2026 Hajj.

This was disclosed in a press release signed by the Board’s Director, Public Affairs, Taofeek Lawal, on Tuesday.

The pilgrims, according to the Board’s spokesperson visited Jabal Thawr, where Prophet Muhammad and Abu Bakr took refuge during the Hijrah; Jabal Nur, the site of the first revelation; and Mount Arafah, traditionally associated with the meeting of Prophet Adam and Hawwa after their expulsion from Paradise.

The contingent also toured Mina, where pilgrims will stay for at least five days during the main Hajj rites; Muzdalifah, where pilgrims spend the night and collect pebbles; and the Jamarat area, the site of the symbolic stoning of the devil. 

The Board’s officials said the visits allowed pilgrims to see the sites firsthand and understand their significance before the main rites begin, noting that Mount Arafah may be difficult to access on the Day of Arafah due to the large crowds expected.

Speaking during the visit, Chairman of the Dawah and Enlightenment Sub-Committee, Prof. Kabir Olawale Paramole, said the sites highlight the historical and spiritual foundations of Islam. 

“As you can see, Lagos State pilgrims went on the visitation as a united body and returned as a united body.

“The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has not disappointed us. Islam is a religion of peace with historical and spiritual sites that show it is a divinely-given religion from Allah to Prophet Muhammad” Paramole stated.

Similarly, a pilgrim, Rafiu Williams, commended the state government’s arrangements in Makkah. 

He said: “I must commend the Lagos State Government. They have performed brilliantly, especially here in Makkah.

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“There are areas that need improvement, but overall, they have tried. My experience with state and local government officials has been excellent. They are knowledgeable, resourceful, and helpful. I rate them 8.5 to 9 out of 10.”

Ziyarah will continue on Wednesday, May 20, for pilgrims accommodated in Houses 2 and 3. 

After completing the visits, pilgrims will remain in Makkah until their movement to Mina on Sunday, May 24, corresponding to 7th Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, for the start of the main Hajj rites.

Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, urged pilgrims to conserve energy, stay hydrated, and prioritize their health. 

The Board Secretary, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin added that the state government has secured Category A+ tents in Mina and Arafah for pilgrims’ comfort. He advised pilgrims to follow all instructions and pray for an accepted Hajj.

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