Taoreed Abdullahi
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially bid farewell to 1,432 intending pilgrims set to embark on the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, unveiling a robust welfare package to ensure a seamless spiritual journey.
Represented by the Attorney General, Mr. Lawal Pedro, the Governor addressed the pilgrims during a one-day seminar and prayer session organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the profound spiritual significance of Hajj as the fifth pillar of Islam, calling for physical, mental, and spiritual preparedness. He noted that the Lagos State Government had gone to great lengths to ensure pilgrims’ well-being.
Key welfare provisions include:
Free, compulsory medical screening across 10 centres
Vaccinations provided by Port Health Services
Ihram clothing allowance in Saudi Riyals
Air-conditioned transport for Ziyarah
Nutritious local meals in line with health and religious standards
Comfortable accommodation near holy sites and in Mina and Arafah
A dedicated medical team for emergencies and routine care
State-sponsored Hadiyah ram sacrifice
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the pilgrims for investing over ₦8.78 million each and assured them of value for their money, stressing that trained personnel would be present throughout to offer support and guidance.
He also urged the pilgrims to be exemplary representatives of Nigeria and to comply fully with the laws of both Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
Commissioner for Home Affairs reiterated the state’s commitment, highlighting additional support including a cash meal allowance for breaking fasts during the rites in Mina.
The first batch of Lagos pilgrims is scheduled to depart on May 12, 2025, with all pilgrims expected to report to the secretariat by 6 a.m.
Other key speakers at the event included:
Alhaji Tajudeen Abefe, NAHCON Southwest Commissioner, who emphasized obedience, prayer, and national representation.
Aminu Shinkafi of NDLEA, who warned against carrying prohibited items or others’ luggage, especially kola nuts.
Mr. Abdulkareem Jibril, Chairman, House Committee on Home Affairs, who urged pilgrims to focus solely on worship.
Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, who advised pilgrims to disclose health issues early and guard against heat-related illnesses.
The Governor also requested special prayers for Nigeria, Lagos State, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s continued success.