By Abdullateef Muhammad The Edo state Governor, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the appointment of His Royal Highness, Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, the Oghieaga of Ivbie, as the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage.
The Governor disclosed this in Government House, Benin city while receiving the 2025 Hajj report.
Gov Okpebholo described the decision to reappoint the Oghieaga as deliberate and based on confidence in his leadership and performance.
Speaking during the meeting, Governor Okpebholo expressed satisfaction with the leadership style and track record of the Oghieaga, noting that the choice was carefully made to ensure effective coordination of Edo State’s pilgrims during the 2026 pilgrimage.
Gov Okpebholo stressed that Hajj requires proper and early planning, adding that timely communication with the government is necessary to avoid challenges that could affect preparations and participation in the holy exercise.
On his part, the Amirul Hajj, HRH Mallam Ali D. Suleyman, commended the Governor for his continued support to Muslim pilgrims in the state and highlighted improvements recorded during the 2025 Hajj, including better accommodation, provision of Nigerian meals, enhanced medical services among others
The Oghieaga however, expressed optimism that with improved planning and sustained government support, Edo State would continue to record successful Hajj operations.