The Chairman of the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana, Hon. Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, has called on Ghanaian pilgrims traveling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to remain patient, united and cooperative throughout the spiritual exercise.
Addressing the first batch of prospective pilgrims from Accra before their departure, Hon. Tanko Ibrahim reminded them that challenges and difficulties have always been part of the Hajj experience since the time of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
According to him, no pilgrim undertakes the sacred journey without encountering one challenge or another before eventually returning home safely.
He explained that regardless of one’s financial status or social background, every pilgrim may face certain difficulties during the pilgrimage, stressing that patience and understanding among pilgrims remain the key to overcoming such situations.
The Chairman therefore appealed to pilgrims to tolerate one another and avoid unnecessary disagreements, noting that many problems can easily be resolved when people exercise patience and unity.
“We should learn to endure and support one another. If we remain patient, many misunderstandings and difficulties will be forgotten with time,” he stated.
Hon. Tanko Ibrahim further prayed for Allah’s protection and safe journey for all pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia, while also asking God to grant officials and other team members safe arrival to support the pilgrims.
He assured the pilgrims that the leadership of the Pilgrims Affairs Office remains fully committed to addressing their concerns and resolving challenges that may arise during the pilgrimage.
The Chairman stressed that the success of the Hajj operation largely depends on the cooperation and support of the pilgrims themselves.
According to him, officials have dedicated themselves fully to the welfare of the pilgrims and are working around the clock both in Ghana and Saudi Arabia to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.
“At times, I remain in the office for 24 hours attending to issues. In Saudi Arabia too, we will stay with you and work continuously to resolve every challenge we can handle,” he said.
He however acknowledged that there may be situations beyond the control of officials, explaining that failure to resolve some issues should not be interpreted as negligence but rather circumstances beyond human ability.
Hon. Tanko Ibrahim also expressed appreciation to the women participating in the pilgrimage, describing them as mothers and senior figures deserving of respect and care.
He emphasized that leadership is a responsibility entrusted by Allah and should never be seen as superiority over others.
The address ended with prayers for peace, successful Hajj performance and safe return for all Ghanaian pilgrims.
