By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Kaduna State pilgrims in Saudi Arabia have been urged to remain devoted to prayer and other acts of worship following the conclusion of the 2026 Hajj, which attracted about 1.7 million pilgrims from across the world.
The advice was given by a member of the Special Hajj Committee, Sheikh Haliru Maraya, after the Zuhr (afternoon) prayer in Makkah, according to a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Malam Ibraheem Musa. The statement noted that the annual pilgrimage took place between the 8th and 13th days of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
Sheikh Maraya, who also chairs the 2026 Hajj Preaching Committee, encouraged pilgrims to maximise their remaining time in Makkah through voluntary prayers, recitation of the Qur’an and supplications. He said acts of worship performed in Makkah carry significant spiritual value and urged pilgrims to maintain discipline and avoid conduct inconsistent with Islamic teachings.
The cleric also advised pilgrims not to become anxious about returning home, but instead to focus on spiritual reflection and devotion during the remainder of their stay. He called on pilgrims to pray for peace, stability and progress in Nigeria, as well as for the country’s leaders and the resolution of security challenges.
Maraya further commended Governor Uba Sani and the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency for their efforts in ensuring what he described as a smooth and successful Hajj exercise for pilgrims from the state.
