The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has extended goodwill messages to Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia ahead of the Arafat rites for the 2026 Hajj.

In a statement issued on Monday through his spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, the monarch described the gathering at the Plain of Arafat as the spiritual peak of the Hajj and a symbol of unity, equality, and devotion among Muslims worldwide.

The Emir noted that millions of Muslims, including thousands of Nigerians, would gather in worship to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness during the exercise.

He prayed for Allah to grant the pilgrims strength, good health, and spiritual fulfilment to successfully complete the Hajj rites without difficulties.

The traditional ruler also urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and remain good ambassadors of Nigeria and Kwara State throughout their stay in the Holy Land.

According to him, the pilgrims should demonstrate discipline, patience, and respect in their interactions while observing the sacred rites.

The Emir further encouraged them to remember Nigeria in their prayers by seeking peace, unity, prosperity, and divine guidance for the country’s leaders.

He also commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, and other officials involved in coordinating the pilgrimage for their efforts toward a smooth Hajj exercise.

The statement added that the Emir prayed for the safe return of all pilgrims and expressed hope that the spiritual lessons gained during Hajj would promote moral values and harmony in society.