Hajj is one of Islam’s five pillars. It is a profound act of worship, a journey of submission, and renewal that calls Muslims to Makkah’s sacred precincts to retrace the steps of Prophet Ibrahim, Hajar, and Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
It is not merely a physical voyage but a spiritual commitment that demands sacrifice, unity, and devotion, as over two million believers converge annually to perform rituals rooted in centuries of faith.
For the Hujjaj of Oyo State, I believe this pilgrimage is a revelation to their commitment to Allah’s command, a deliberate choice to prioritise soul over circumstance.
I hold this exercise in reverence, and I recognise its power to reform hearts and bind our various communities in pursuit of divine mercy.
I commend you, the Hujjaj, for carving time from your packed schedules—whether as farmers, traders, teachers, business persons, or public servants,—to answer this tenet of our faith.
You could have poured the millions of naira into business ventures and chase profit, but you’ve heeded Allah’s call instead. I believe He will reward you abundantly, and accept your Hajj as an act of Ibadah, pure and whole.
Your choice to stand at Arafat, to circle the Kaaba, is a quiet rebellion against the grind, a reminder that faith outshines fleeting gains, and I honour and respect you for it.
My heartfelt greetings go to the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, led by Sheikh Wahab Ateere, for their tireless work in preparing to transport you to the Holy Land.
From securing visas to arranging flights for the May 10 and 11, 2025, departures, their efforts ensure your journey begins with ease. I charge them to maintain this diligence in Saudi Arabia and support you through every ritual, from Mina to Muzdalifah.
I believe you know your role is a very tasking and demanding assignment — keeping Oyo State’s pilgrims safe and focused is a service to Allah and our State, and I urge you to stay steadfast.
I extend deep thanks to the Oyo State Government, under Engr. Seyi Makinde for the support. Commitment like this carries the weight of our state’s pride, and it further behooves on everyone to keep doing their best for Oyo State in whatever capacity they are found, and struggle for the general welfare of the citizenry.
To you, dear Hujjaj, I offer my warmest wishes for a Hajj Mabroor, a pilgrimage that will be accepted by Allah. I believe while you pray for yourselves and your loved ones, you’ll hold Oyo State and our beloved Nigeria high in your du’as, seeking wisdom for our leaders and peace for our land.
I urge you to be stellar ambassadors, as the board’s chairman stressed at the farewell, and carry the ‘Asiwaju’ emblem of our Pace Setter State with dignity in the holy land of Makkah.
I strongly believe your prayers and conduct will echo back to us, and I trust you’ll return safely in full hearts.
Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK)
Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa.
AKK!! Ajose Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task that must be done.
Friday May 9, 2025.
