Hajj 2026: Experts urge spiritual readiness, health compliance as Hajj Mabrur marks 25 years

SCHOLARS and professionals have urged intending pilgrims to prioritise spiritual sincerity, medical fitness, and strict compliance with travel regulations ahead of the 2026 Hajj.

The appeal was made in Lagos at the first phase of the orientation programme organised by Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited, held on Sunday, at the Islamic Centre, University of Lagos, Akoka.

The programme formed part of the company’s activities marking 25 years of Hajj operations in Nigeria. The second phase is scheduled for Sunday, April 19.

Speakers at the seminar emphasised that spiritual readiness remains the foundation of a meaningful Hajj.

Deputy Registrar of the Yaba College of Technology, Sheikh Saeed Salman, cautioned that performing Hajj without proper intention and preparation could reduce it to “a waste of resources rather than a transformative act of worship.”

He noted that many Muslims approach the pilgrimage with misplaced priorities, seeking social recognition instead of divine reward.

“Many wish to perform Hajj, but only a few are granted the opportunity. Those who are chosen must maximise it through proper understanding and devotion,” he said.

According to him, Hajj is not merely a physical journey but a deeply spiritual exercise requiring knowledge, discipline, and sincerity.

He added that the seminar was designed to correct misconceptions and guide pilgrims towards a fulfilling experience.

Describing Hajj as one of the five pillars of Islam, Sheikh Salman stressed that it is obligatory only for those who are financially and physically capable.

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He urged participants to embrace repentance, avoid showmanship, and cultivate patience, lawful earnings, and good character.

He highlighted the importance of intellectual preparation through learning, consultation with scholars, and maintaining righteous company, noting that proper preparation ensures a seamless and rewarding pilgrimage.

Health considerations also featured prominently. A medical practitioner, Dr Yusuf Adebowale, maintained that medical fitness is essential for full participation in Hajj rites.

He described good health as a blessing often taken for granted and advised pilgrims to undergo comprehensive medical checks before departure.

He stressed the need for regular monitoring of blood pressure, describing hypertension as a silent killer, and urged diabetic patients to adhere strictly to medical guidance.

He also warned about dehydration risks due to Saudi Arabia’s climate and advised proper kidney care.

Pilgrims were encouraged to exercise regularly, avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and self-medication, and maintain adequate hydration.

Special precautions were also recommended for those with asthma or ulcers, alongside completing all required vaccinations.

On travel procedures, an immigration officer, DSI Shafi Bilesanmi, stressed the importance of proper documentation and compliance with international regulations.

He urged pilgrims to verify their passports and other travel documents early and to seek clarification where necessary.

He warned against carrying items for strangers and advised full cooperation with Saudi authorities, noting that regulations differ significantly from those in Nigeria.

Pilgrims were also told to keep communication devices charged and maintain contact with their tour operators.

Providing operational updates, the company’s Operations Manager, Alhaji Abdul Hameed Oyinlola, said pilgrims would depart via Emirates Airlines and Turkish Airlines from Lagos and Abuja, respectively.

He confirmed that visa processing is electronic and urged those yet to receive theirs to act promptly.

In his welcome address, Managing Director, Alhaji Abdulhamid Solate, expressed gratitude for the commencement of the 2026 Hajj programme, noting that the company has operated for over two decades, except during the COVID-19 disruption.

He acknowledged that changing Saudi policies, early payment deadlines, and financial constraints posed challenges, but said efforts were made to ensure committed pilgrims were not excluded.

“This year is different due to policy changes and quota reduction. We had to support pilgrims who had committed, even though not all could be accommodated,” he said.

He described participating pilgrims as fortunate beneficiaries of the company’s sustained commitment despite limited allocation, reaffirming its dedication to smooth and spiritually fulfilling Hajj operations.

The seminar ended with prayers for a successful pilgrimage, while organisers stressed strict adherence to guidelines ahead of the next phase.

Speaking on the upcoming session, Business Development Officer, Alhaji Monsur Adebayo, described it as compulsory and aimed at deepening participants’ preparedness.

He said the training would include practical demonstrations of Umrah and Hajj rites, jurisprudence sessions, and special prayers for pilgrims and their families.

He urged attendees to participate fully, come prepared with materials, and involve family members, emphasising that knowledge-based preparation is key to attaining Hajj Mabrur, an accepted pilgrimage whose reward, he noted, is Paradise.