To ensure the health and well-being of Lagos State pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj exercise, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Hamzat have fully sponsored the compulsory medical screening for all intending pilgrims from the state.
The Initiative, flagged off at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Ajarah, is part of the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of pilgrims and alleviating their financial burden amid the current economic challenges.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, stated that the gesture is in fulfilment of the Governor’s directive that all pilgrims must be certified medically fit before embarking on the spiritual journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“The medical screening, which cost ₦50,000 per person last year, is now fully funded by the state government. This is to ease the strain on pilgrims who have paid the ₦8.78 million Hajj fare,” Layode said.
Ten designated screening centres have been set up across the state to accommodate the exercise, which includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis, Full Blood Count (FBC), Electrolyte and Urea + Creatinine (E, U + Cr), urinalysis, and pregnancy for female pilgrims.
Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, Coordinator of the screening exercise, explained that the inclusion of additional tests ensures a more comprehensive health assessment, in line with the Governor’s directive.
Board Secretary, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, urged all intending pilgrims to take advantage of the free screening, describing it as “a rare and commendable intervention by the state government.”
No fewer than 1,400 intending pilgrims from Lagos State are expected to perform the 2025 Hajj rites.