The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the vaccination of 1,714 intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj, as part of efforts to ensure a safe and successful exercise.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the board’s Assistant Press Secretary, Abdulmumeen Sidiq, in Ilorin.
The vaccination exercise, conducted by Port Health Services led by Mrs A.I. Owolabi, covers immunisation against oral polio, meningitis and yellow fever—mandatory requirements for entry into Saudi Arabia.
Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji AbdulKadri Abdulsalam, described the programme as a critical component of pre-Hajj preparations.
He noted that the exercise is aimed at protecting pilgrims from infectious diseases and preventing possible outbreaks during the pilgrimage.
“The vaccination exercise is essential to safeguarding the health of our pilgrims and ensuring compliance with international health standards and Saudi entry requirements,” he said.
Abdulsalam added that the board was working closely with relevant health authorities to ensure all intending pilgrims meet the required medical conditions before departure.
He urged pilgrims across the state’s 16 local government areas to participate fully in the exercise, warning that failure to comply could affect their chances of travelling.
Meanwhile, the board has also begun distributing uniform materials and travel bags to the pilgrims to enhance identification and coordination during their stay.
The executive secretary reaffirmed the board’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and hitch-free Hajj operation.
