Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on the 206 Edo pilgrims set to depart for the Holy Land on 14th May 2025 to conduct themselves peacefully, with discipline, and in accordance with the law, while embodying the core values that distinguish Edo people.
Governor Okpebholo delivered this charge during an address to the intending pilgrims at the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Benin City.
The contingent, comprising 206 individuals from the state, will be airlifted to Mecca on 14th May 2025.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., the governor encouraged the pilgrims to uphold the principles that define Edo people and set them apart in all endeavours.
He advised them to maintain peace, demonstrate discipline, and represent the state with pride, noting that Edo pilgrims have always been exemplary in their Hajj observances in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
The governor also commended the Board for its historic preparations, stating that its diligence reflects a profound commitment to duty.
“As you prepare to embark on this sacred journey, I urge you to carry with you the values that define us as a people. Be peaceful and disciplined at all times. Represent our State with dignity and uphold the laws and customs of the host nation.
“Let your conduct reflect the teachings of your faith and bring honour to our land. Pray not only for yourselves and your families, but also for the peace, progress, and unity of our dear state and nation. May your pilgrimage be safe, spiritually fulfilling, and accepted,” the governor concluded.
On his part, Chairman of the Edo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mallam Muhammad Musa Uduimoh, thanked the governor for his inspiring and supportive speech, adding that the governor’s logistical, financial and moral support for the 2025 Hajj has played a vital role in ensuring smooth and safe preparations for the pilgrimage.
Mallam Uduimoh said intending pilgrims from Edo State will be airlifted on Wednesday, 14th May 2025, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the 2025 Hajj.
The Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Eranga AbdulKabir MuhammadKabir, said out of the 206 intending pilgrims from Edo State, 120 are male and 86 are female.
Speaking on behalf of the Edo State intending pilgrims, the Amir Hajj and leader of the delegation, HRH Mallam Ali Sulayman, the Oghieaga of Ibvie in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, commended Governor Okpebholo for his support to the Board.
He noted that the governor’s commitment to religious harmony in the state is highly commendable. The Oghieaga expressed satisfaction and assured the governor of a hitch-free and better organized Hajj exercise this year.
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