Airlifting of intending pilgrims from the State to Saudi Arabia would commence from Monday, May 12th, 2025.

The Executive Secretary, Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo, made this known during the final inoculation, sensitisation and distribution of Hajj materials to intending pilgrims, at the Board’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Ajibola disclosed that the Board was 95 percent ready for the year 2025 Hajj operation, explaining that the vaccination exercise was conducted in accordance with the guidelines set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Arabian Government.

"The Board is sensitising the pilgrims on the rites of Hajj, expectations before leaving home, and conduct while in Mecca and Medina," he said.

"We are also distributing bags, uniforms, identification cards, hijabs and other items to  pilgrims and sensitising them on what to pack and what is expected of them during the Pilgrimage, "he added.

He warned the pilgrims on prohibited items, including kolanuts, knives, blades, scissors, and shaving sticks, which were not allowed in Saudi Arabia, advising pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines and regulations set by the Saudi Arabia government to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage.

The Executive Secretary, commended the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for his support to the Board, while highlighting the significance of the final orientation programme for the intending pilgrims.

Speaking, Consultant to the Ogun State Governor on lslamic Affairs, Sheik lskeel Lawal charged the intending pilgrims on how to behave while performing Hajj rites and other things expected of them as good ambassadors of the State and Nigeria.

Earlier, Head of the Medical team, Dr. Mazeed Oloko, counseled the intending pilgrims to take along their prescribed medication, in line with new guidelines, advising them to avoid spending too much time in the sun and drink enough water to prevent dehydration.

In his lecture, Ogun State Commander, National Drug Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Layi Adekambi, emphasised the importance of intention in performing Hajj.

He noted that some pilgrims may intend to perform Hajj for business, he advised that such must be in accordance to the Saudi Arabian government rules, warning that anyone found with illegal substances or dealings, would face strict penalties, including death sentence.

           

      The NDLEA boss urged the intending pilgrims to prioritise their intentions, focusing on worship and righteous deeds, saying "A good name is better than wealth and riches".

Reacting, Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, Mr. Aremu Mustapha emphasised the importance of safeguarding their passports during the Hajj pilgrimage, advising them to keep their travel documents, keep it out of sight with other valuable items, while enjoining pilgrims to be good ambassadors of the State and Nigeria.

In his remark, Head of Religion and Operations Units, lmam AbdulFatai Buhari, sensitised intending pilgrims on the importance of good conduct, obedience, modesty, and maintaining orderliness during the Hajj exercise, urging pilgrims to be respectful to officials and avoid any behaviour that would bring discredit to them, the State, and the country.

 

Two of the intending pilgrims  in their remarks, Mrs. Bakare Aminat and Mr. Ajibade Mojeed, appreciated the State government for the comprehensive sensitisation, medical screening, and distribution of Hajj materials, which has greatly contributed to their preparedness and well-being as they embark on the sacred journey.