By Soliu Oyesiji
Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved the appointment of Shamsudeen Apelogun as Amirul Hajj for Ogun State’s 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Apelogun is expected to lead Muslim pilgrims from the state during the annual Hajj exercise.
In a related development, the governor also appointed Zakariyah Olorungbebe as chairman of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, with responsibility for overseeing administrative and operational activities for the exercise.
The appointments were contained in a statement signed by Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, who said the move is part of efforts to ensure a smooth and well-organised pilgrimage.
Abiodun charged the appointees to discharge their duties with diligence, integrity and commitment, stressing the need for effective leadership and coordination to guarantee the safety and comfort of pilgrims.
The state government also reaffirmed its commitment to providing the necessary support to ensure a hitch-free Hajj for all intending pilgrims from Ogun.