The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has conveyed warm greetings to Nigerian pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia as they prepare for the Arafat rites of the Hajj pilgrimage.
The message was delivered through his spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, in Ilorin on Monday.
The Emir described the Day of Arafat as the most spiritually significant moment of Hajj, symbolising devotion, equality, and unity among Muslims worldwide.
He noted that millions of pilgrims, including many Nigerians, would gather on the plains of Arafat in a collective act of worship seeking divine mercy and forgiveness.
He prayed for the pilgrims to be granted good health, strength, and spiritual endurance to successfully complete the sacred obligations.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, who also serves as Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, urged the pilgrims to maintain exemplary behaviour throughout the exercise.
He encouraged them to represent Nigeria and Kwara State positively through patience, discipline, and mutual respect.
He further advised them to use the sacred moment to pray for peace, unity, and national progress, as well as wisdom for leaders at all levels of government.
The Emir also commended the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, and other relevant officials for their efforts in ensuring a well-organised pilgrimage exercise.
He concluded by praying for the safe return of all pilgrims to their families and communities.