Mixed feelings as Nigerian pilgrims complete hajj rites

By Habeebat Ajayi from Mina Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise have begun completing the major rites of the pilgrimage with mixed feelings of spiritual fulfilment, exhaustion and relief after days of rigorous religious activities across the holy sites in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims, who moved between Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina under intense […]

By Habeebat Ajayi from Mina

Nigerian pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise have begun completing the major rites of the pilgrimage with mixed feelings of spiritual fulfilment, exhaustion and relief after days of rigorous religious activities across the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrims, who moved between Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina under intense weather conditions, described the experience as spiritually rewarding despite the physical stress associated with the pilgrimage.

Many pilgrims were seen returning from the symbolic stoning ritual at Jamarat looking visibly tired but emotionally fulfilled after successfully completing one of the most important pillars of Islam.

Some of them said the Hajj journey tested their patience, endurance and faith, particularly with the long hours of movement, overcrowding and sleepless nights spent at the holy sites.

“It has not been easy physically, but spiritually it is a lifetime experience. We are grateful to Allah for giving us the strength to complete the rites,” one of the pilgrims said.

Others expressed gratitude for the opportunity to pray for themselves, their families and Nigeria during the spiritually significant exercise.

Despite the exhaustion, pilgrims continued exchanging greetings and prayers while preparing for the final stages of the pilgrimage before their eventual return to Nigeria.