Report by Shafii Sani Mohammed
Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj joined millions of Muslims from across the world on the plains of Arafah on Tuesday to observe the spiritual climax of the pilgrimage amid prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.
The Day of Arafah, regarded as the peak of Hajj, witnessed pilgrims engage in intense supplications, recitation of the Holy Qur’an and acts of devotion as they sought Allah’s mercy, forgiveness and blessings.
In his Arafah Khutbah, delivered from Masjid Namirah, Sheikh Ali Alhuzayfi reminded pilgrims the importance of piety, righteousness, unity and total submission to the will of Allah. He also emphasized the values of compassion, mutual respect, justice and peaceful coexistence among humanity.
The Khutbah further urged Muslims to uphold sincerity in worship, avoid actions capable of causing division and remain steadfast in promoting peace, tolerance and good character in their communities and societies.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, visited pilgrims’ tents in Arafah to assess the welfare and condition of pilgrims as well as the level of services being provided during the Mashair operations.
During the visits, the Chairman interacted with pilgrims and officials from different state contingents, while inspecting feeding arrangements, accommodation facilities, medical services and other support systems put in place for the comfort of Nigerian pilgrims.
Ambassador Yusuf expressed satisfaction with the level of coordination and cooperation among officials, service providers and pilgrims, while urging all stakeholders to remain patient, orderly and prayerful throughout the remaining Hajj rites.
As part of activities marking the Day of Arafah, a special Prayer session was also held for Nigeria, its leaders and citizens. Clerics and members of the National Ulama Team prayed for enduring peace, security, unity, economic prosperity and political stability in the country.
Prayers were equally offered for the success of the ongoing Hajj operations, safe return of pilgrims and continued guidance for the leadership of NAHCON in the discharge of its responsibilities toward Nigerian pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
*Shafii writes from Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
