The Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has assured intending pilgrims of timely passport processing ahead of the 2026 Hajj exercise, in line with Saudi Arabia’s deadline.

State Comptroller of Immigration, Mrs. Olufunke Odusote, gave the assurance while receiving the management team of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB), led by its Executive Secretary, Alhaji Taiwo Ajibola, during a courtesy visit to her office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Odusote commended the Board for the visit and noted the long-standing collaboration between both institutions. She explained that passport processing had become faster with the adoption of computer-based systems, unlike in the past. She urged the management to encourage Muslims to obtain international passports early, regardless of their immediate travel intentions.

“Whether you plan to go for Hajj or not, it is important for Muslims to have valid passports. That way, if the opportunity for pilgrimage arises, passport issuance will not become an obstacle,” she said.

She further advised, intending pilgrims to begin their applications early, stressing that early processing would ease the issuance of passports.

In his remarks, Alhaji Ajibola, commended the Immigration Service for its consistent support, describing the agency as a critical partner in ensuring seamless Hajj operations. He reiterated the Board’s commitment to continuous sensitisation of prospective pilgrims on the need to have their passports ready before time.

Similarly, the management of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB) also paid a courtesy visit to the State Primary Healthcare Development Board to discuss modalities for the vaccination/inoculations screening of intending pilgrims and the issuance of medical fitness certificates.

During the visit, Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Taiwo Ajibola, noted the possibility of Saudi Arabia Hajj Authorities introducing additional vaccines in the screening process. He commended the Primary Healthcare Development Board for its consistent support in ensuring successful Hajj operations over the years.

Responding on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Primary Healthcare Development Board, the State Immunisation Officer, Dr. Suraj Olayinka, assured that the Board, as a partner in progress, would continue to provide the necessary support for the smooth conduct of Hajj activities.