Nigerian Pilgrims Commence Hajj Rites on Arafat Plain Thousands of Nigerian pilgrims have converged on the vast plains of Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia to commence the central rituals of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. On the afternoon of Zil Hajj 8, the pilgrims gathered in massive tents on the Arafat Plain, listening to sermons and engaging in prayers. They spent the day and night in contemplation and supplication, seeking forgiveness and divine guidance. The Arafat Plain is considered the holiest site in the Hajj pilgrimage. It is where Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon, outlining the principles of Islam and emphasizing unity, piety, and compassion. For Nigerian pilgrims, Arafat is a time of profound spiritual reflection. They use the opportunity to seek Allah’s mercy, pray for their families and the wellbeing of their country, and ask for forgiveness for their sins. “This is the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage,” said Hajiya Fatima Abubakar, a pilgrim from Kano State. “We are here to purify our souls and come closer to our Creator. We pray for peace and prosperity in our country and for the world.” After sunset, the pilgrims will proceed to Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the stars. They will then return to Mina on Zil Hajj 10 to begin the symbolic stoning of the devil. The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and it is a compulsory religious duty for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it. Over 90,000 Nigerian pilgrims are participating in this year’s Hajj.Nigerian Pilgrims Observe Arafat Day in MeccaNigerian Pilgrims Observe Arafat Day in Mecca Over 65,000 Nigerian pilgrims joined Muslims worldwide in observing Arafat Day in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. They gathered at the Arafat Plain to perform the central rite of the Hajj pilgrimage. The ritual on Mount Arafat, also known as the Hill of Mercy, represents the culmination of the Hajj. Pilgrims stand shoulder-to-shoulder, seeking Allah’s blessings, forgiveness, and well-being. Under strict security measures, the pilgrims marched towards Arafat, guided by Nigerian Hajj Commission officials and Saudi authorities. Security personnel ensured pedestrian and vehicle flow, while offering guidance and protection. The Arafat area offers essential services such as medical care, emergency assistance, and food for pilgrims. Dr. Abdallah Gadonkaya addressed the pilgrims, urging them to seek divine forgiveness and pray for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity. Gadonkaya emphasized the importance of exemplary behavior by pilgrims to represent Nigeria positively.Nigerian Pilgrims Commence Hajj Rites on Arafat Plain Nigerian pilgrims have joined over two million Muslims worldwide in observing the most significant day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage on the sprawling plains of Arafat in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims, who have prepared spiritually and physically for the arduous journey, spent the day supplicating, praying, and seeking forgiveness on the sacred ground where Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon over 14 centuries ago. The Arafat Day is a pivotal moment in the Hajj rituals, where pilgrims stand in unity and humility before God, seeking His mercy and blessings. The day culminated in the evening with the symbolic “stoning of the devil” at the nearby site of Mina. The Nigerian Consulate in Saudi Arabia coordinated the movement of pilgrims from their accommodations in Mecca to the Arafat Plain, ensuring their welfare and safety throughout the day. The Amirul Hajj, who leads the Nigerian delegation, urged the pilgrims to maintain good conduct, discipline, and adherence to the rules and regulations of the Hajj. The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a transformative experience for Muslims, bringing them closer to God and fostering unity and brotherhood among believers from all corners of the world.