Last batch of Lagos 1,315 pilgrims return

The last batch of 1,315 pilgrims from Lagos State, who participated in this year’s Hajj exercise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, returned home yesterday.

The flight landed at Muritala International Airport (MMIA) in Ikeja around 2pm.

Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amrul Hajj, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, congratulated the pilgrims on completing a successful Hajj, commending them for their good behaviour and exemplary conduct in the Holy Land.

Layode noted that the medical screenings conducted on the pilgrims before their journey helped manage their health while in the holy land.

He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, for their support in ensuring the success of the Hajj exercise.

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The Commissioner reiterated that preparations for next year’s Hajj operations would begin soon, assuring that more innovations would be introduced, including early payment for Hajj fees to prevent visa delays, strictly enforced by Saudi authorities.

Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, mentioned that the pilgrims from Lagos were airlifted promptly in accordance with the schedule set by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to minimise their time spent in the holy land.

Ajomagberin expressed gratitude to God for protecting the pilgrims to perform all rites without serious incidents.

While praising the peaceful conduct of the pilgrims, Mr. Ajomagberin encouraged them to reflect on the lessons learned during the spiritual journey and to incorporate those lessons into their lives, businesses, and relationships with others.

Some of the pilgrims, who spoke with reporters, hailed Lagos State officials for providing adequate care during their time in the holy land. They praised the accommodations, meals, transportation, and other logistics, expressing that the state went above and beyond to ensure their journey was fulfilling.