The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has commenced the vaccination of 1,714 intending pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
The exercise marks a key stage in preparations for a smooth and safe pilgrimage for Muslim faithful from the state.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the board’s Assistant Press Secretary, Abdulmumeen Sidiq, in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
According to the statement, the vaccination is being carried out by the Port Health Services under the supervision of Mrs A.I. Owolabi.
The immunisation covers oral polio, meningitis and yellow fever vaccines, which are compulsory for all pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj.
Speaking during the exercise, the Executive Secretary of the board, Alhaji AbdulKadri Abdulsalam, described the vaccination programme as a vital aspect of the board’s pre-Hajj arrangements.
He said the exercise was aimed at protecting pilgrims from infectious diseases and ensuring compliance with international health regulations.
“The vaccination exercise is a critical part of our preparations because it is designed to safeguard the health of pilgrims and prevent the spread of infectious diseases during the pilgrimage,” Abdulsalam said.
He added that the board was collaborating with relevant health authorities to ensure all intending pilgrims satisfy the medical requirements stipulated by Saudi authorities before departure.
The executive secretary urged pilgrims across the 16 local government areas of the state to cooperate fully with health officials and complete the vaccination process without delay.
According to him, failure to comply with the health guidelines could affect the eligibility of pilgrims to travel for the Hajj.
Abdulsalam also disclosed that the board had begun distributing uniform materials and travelling bags to intending pilgrims as part of logistical arrangements for the pilgrimage.
He noted that the distribution was intended to enhance easy identification, orderliness and convenience for pilgrims throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The board, he added, remains committed to ensuring a seamless and hitch-free Hajj operation for all pilgrims from the state.
