2026: Niger Pilgrims’  Board organizes one-day workshop for staff 

By Daniel Ebi, Minna 

The Niger State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has organized a one-day pre-Hajj workshop for its operational staff as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise. 

The workshop was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of evolving guidelines and operational procedures for the upcoming pilgrimage.

The event, held at the Women Multipurpose Hall, Old Secretariat, Minna, brought together key stakeholders, including security personnel, Ulama’a, Board members, and Area Pilgrims Welfare Officers (APWOs), who play critical roles in guiding pilgrims throughout the Hajj process.

Speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Sheikh Muhammad Awwal Aliyu, stated that the workshop is an annual initiative aimed at equipping operational personnel with up-to-date knowledge and insights on emerging developments in Hajj operations.

Represented by the Director of Administration, Malam Ado Bello, the Executive Secretary expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their attendance and encouraged participants to engage actively for a successful outcome.

Responding, the Amirul Hajj for 2026 and Emir of Agaie, Alhaji Yusuf Nuhu, urged participants to pay close attention to the proceedings and maximize the opportunity provided by the workshop, describing it as essential to the success of the Hajj exercise.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Niger State House of Assembly Committee on Religious Affairs, Isah Muhammad Etsugaie, represented by the Committee Clerk, 

 Abdullahi Shuaibu, emphasized the vital role of Islamic scholars in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The workshop covered both spiritual and operational components of the pilgrimage, including sessions on Manasik (Hajj rites), visitation procedures in Madina, and strategies for effective coordination.

Participants also received presentations from key agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), highlighting the importance of inter-agency collaboration and compliance with regulatory requirements.

An interactive session provided an opportunity for participants to ask questions, share experiences, and address operational challenges, thereby fostering teamwork and improving overall preparedness.

The Board reaffirmed that the workshop is part of its broader commitment to ensuring that all intending pilgrims from Niger State are properly guided, adequately supported, and able to undertake the Hajj with confidence and ease.