• Governor offers free Ihram, transportation, others
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promised 1,432 pilgrims embarking on the Hajj to Saudi Arabia a robust welfare package.
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Justice/Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, SAN, made the promise while addressing the pilgrims during a special one-day seminar and prayer session organised by the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Highlighting the spiritual and logistical significance of the Hajj, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised its importance as the fifth pillar of Islam, demanding complete submission, purification and physical and mental preparedness. In a move to prioritise the well-being of the pilgrims, the state government has implemented a free, comprehensive and compulsory medical screening conducted across 10 decentralised locations.
The initiative, coordinated by Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, included vital health assessments and essential vaccinations administered by the Port Health Services.
Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the substantial financial investment of N8,784,085.59 paid by each pilgrim, assuring them of a comprehensive Hajj package designed to provide excellent value.
This includes quality accommodation in close proximity to the holy sites in Makkah and Madinah, comfortable lodging in Mina and Arafah, air-conditioned transportation for Ziyarah to historical locations, and daily nutritious local cuisine adhering to health and religious standards.
The governor announced the provision of a dedicated medical team available for emergencies and routine care throughout the pilgrimage.
“Trained personnel will be on-site to offer guidance and support to the pilgrims,” he said.
He said the cost of Hadiyah ram had been covered by the state, adding that pilgrims would receive the monetary equivalent for their Ihram clothing in Saudi Riyals.
Sanwo-Olu urged the intending pilgrims to serve as exemplary ambassadors in Saudi Arabia by maintaining high ethical standards and avoiding any action that could tarnish the country’s reputation.
He stressed adherence to rules and regulations in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, cautioning against the severe consequences of non-compliance.
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Layode, elaborated the governor’s comprehensive support, which included free medical screenings, Ihram clothing and transportation within Saudi Arabia.
The commissioner conveyed the governor’s request for prayers for Nigeria, Lagos State and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s success in the 2027 presidential election.
He said Lagos State first batch would depart Nigeria today.
The NAHCON Southwest Commissioner, Alhaji Tajudeen Abefe, underscored the sacrificial nature of the pilgrimage and implored Lagos pilgrims to uphold their renowned discipline and remain law-abiding.
He advised them to focus on completing the Hajj rites, obey their supervisors, prioritise prayers and remember to pray for the nation and its leaders.
Representative of the NDLEA, Aminu Shinkafi, warned against drug misuse and advised pilgrims to avoid carrying luggage for others, to prevent likely imprisonment for contraband.
He specifically prohibited kola nuts and emphasised the importance of respecting the laws of both countries.
Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Home Affairs, Alhaji Jibreel Abdulkareem, called on the pilgrims to be good ambassadors of Islam, focusing on their sole intention to worship Allah. He stressed the importance of maintaining good health to fulfil their religious obligations.
Representative of the medical team, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, advised pilgrims with pre-existing health conditions to inform the medical team before departure.
She cautioned against the extreme heat in Saudi Arabia, recommending ample hydration, fruit consumption and avoiding prolonged sun exposure.
She reminded them that sleeping pills are prohibited.
