Is the 'Aqiqah obligatory before Hajj, and what is the ruling for one for whom an 'Aqiqah was not slaughtered?

The aqiqah is a confirmed Sunnah for the guardian of the newborn who is able, and Imam Ahmad, in one narration, held it to be obligatory. As for someone for whom the aqiqah was not performed when they were young, they may perform it for themselves if they wish upon reaching maturity, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Every child is mortgaged by his aqiqah." The aqiqah has no relation to the validity of Hajj.