Etsu Nupe urges intending Muslim pilgrims to be good ambassadors
By Mohammed Baba Busu
Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman, Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, has urged intending Muslim pilgrims from Niger State to conduct themselves responsibly and serve as worthy ambassadors of the state and Nigeria during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.
Etsu Nupe gave the advice on Monday at the closing ceremony of the pre-Hajj training in Bida.
The traditional ruler reminded the pilgrims of the rules and regulations guiding the Hajj exercise and cautioned them against acts capable of tarnishing the image of the state and the country.
He also urged them to use the opportunity of the pilgrimage to pray for peace, unity and stability in Nigeria.
The Etsu Nupe further advised the intending pilgrims to uphold the values of patience, discipline, honesty and tolerance throughout their stay in the Holy Land, stressing that the Hajj pilgrimage was not only a spiritual obligation but also a platform to project the rich cultural and moral heritage of Niger State and Nigeria to the global community.
According to him, pilgrims should see themselves as representatives of their families, communities and the entire country, adding that their conduct would either enhance or diminish the reputation of Nigeria before the international community.
He urged them to remain law-abiding, cooperate with officials of the National Hajj Commission and medical teams, and avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary difficulties for themselves and fellow pilgrims.
Abubakar also commended the Niger State Pilgrims Welfare Board for organising comprehensive enlightenment and orientation programmes for the intending pilgrims, noting that adequate preparation remained essential for the successful performance of Hajj rites.
He expressed confidence that the training would equip the pilgrims with the necessary knowledge and understanding to perform their religious obligations in accordance with Islamic teachings.
The royal father further called on the pilgrims to pray for the continued peace, progress and economic development of Niger State, as well as for leaders at all levels to be guided with wisdom and justice in the discharge of their responsibilities.
He reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions in Niger State towards promoting religious harmony, moral values and support for programmes aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of Nupe land, Adamu Yakatun, said that the intending pilgrims had been adequately trained on various aspects of Hajj rites and obligations to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise.
