Kaduna pilgrims urged to sustain prayers after Hajj

Kaduna State pilgrims have been urged to intensify their prayers and acts of worship to maximize the spiritual benefits of their stay in Makkah, despite the official conclusion of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

The advice was given by a member of the Special Hajj Committee, Sheikh Haliru Maraya, after the Zuhr (afternoon) prayer at the Ibrahim Khalil Street residence of Kaduna pilgrims in Makkah on Saturday.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Uba Sani, Ibraheem Musa, recalled that about 1.7 million pilgrims from across the world participated in the 2026 Hajj.

The statement explained that the Hajj pilgrimage begins on the 8th and ends on the 13th day of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, corresponding to May 25 to May 30 this year.

Addressing the pilgrims, Sheikh Maraya emphasized the unique spiritual significance of Makkah, noting that acts of worship performed in the holy city attract far greater rewards than those performed elsewhere.

According to the chairman of the 2026 Hajj Preaching Committee, worship carried out in Makkah—the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)—is rewarded 100,000 times by Allah, SWT.

He cautioned pilgrims against engaging in sinful acts, stressing that even contemplating wrongdoing in the holy city carries serious spiritual consequences.

The cleric also advised pilgrims not to become anxious about returning home, describing such feelings as distractions that could diminish their focus on worship.

Mr Maraya encouraged the pilgrims to take advantage of their remaining time in Makkah by engaging in voluntary prayers, recitation of the Holy Qur’an, remembrance of Allah, and supplications.

He further urged them to pray for peace, unity, and prosperity in Nigeria, as well as for the resolution of the country’s security challenges.

The Islamic scholar commended Governor Uba Sani for providing the necessary logistical support and empowering the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, which he said contributed significantly to the smooth and successful conduct of the 2026 Hajj exercise for pilgrims from the state.