Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has named the Etsu Tsaragi, Alhaji AKpotwa Goshi II, as the Ameerul-Hajj and head of the state's delegation to the 2026 pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The announcement was contained in a statement released on Thursday by the Governor's Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, and obtained by PUNCH Online.

The statement noted that the traditional ruler will lead Kwara State's contingent of Muslim pilgrims to the annual religious exercise.

"As Ameerul-Hajj, Alhaji Goshi II is expected to lead pilgrims from the state to the holy land and coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure the welfare and smooth participation of Kwara pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage," the statement read.

It further clarified that the Ameerul-Hajj occupies a principal supervisory and leadership position, acting as head of delegation and serving as liaison between the pilgrims and both Nigerian and Saudi authorities during Hajj operations.

According to the statement, preliminary arrangements for the 2026 Hajj have already commenced, marking the start of preparations for intending pilgrims across the state.

"While the groundwork is already underway, the main Hajj rites are scheduled to take place in the last week of May 2026, corresponding to Dhul-Hijjah 1447AH in the Islamic calendar," the statement added.

The state government reiterated its resolve to ensure a smooth and hitch-free pilgrimage for all participants from Kwara State as preparations continue ahead of the spiritual exercise.

May 25 to May 30, 2026

The 2026 Hajj is projected to hold between May 25 and May 30, 2026.

The exact dates remain dependent on the sighting of the moon, which determines the commencement of Dhul-Hijjah. The pilgrimage represents a major religious obligation for Muslims, reflecting unity, equality, and devotion to Allah.

The rites comprise a sequence of rituals commemorating the actions of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, symbolising spiritual renewal and the seeking of forgiveness. Pilgrims are advised to arrive in Saudi Arabia between seven and 15 days before the Hajj for adequate preparation.