By Soliu Oyesiji
The Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board has assured intending pilgrims of smooth and immediate accommodation in Makkah for the 2026 Hajj, following concerns over congestion and delays experienced in previous years.
Speaking at a farewell ceremony on May 5, the board’s secretary, Omoniyi Mohammed Mutiu, said all accommodation arrangements for the state’s 825 pilgrims had been concluded ahead of time in collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and a Saudi-based service provider. He explained that rooms and bed spaces had been fully paid for, pre-booked and verified, ensuring that no pilgrim would be stranded upon arrival.
Mutiu noted that each pilgrim would receive an identification card detailing their accommodation block, building, room and bed number in Makkah, stressing that there would be no room changes on arrival except for approved cases before departure. He added that the early completion of payments and improved coordination would eliminate the delays that left some pilgrims stranded for days in the past.
He urged pilgrims to comply with guidelines, including avoiding unauthorized agents and keeping their identification cards, which serve as access to their assigned rooms. According to him, the arrangement is designed to ensure that pilgrims settle into their accommodation within hours of landing, rather than days.
The board expressed confidence that the measures would guarantee a seamless Hajj experience for Ondo pilgrims.
