As preparations intensify for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on intending pilgrims from the state to offer fervent prayers for Nigeria’s stability and economic advancement.
The Governor made the appeal during a one-day seminar organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board at the De-Blue Roof hall, Lagos Television (LTV) complex in Ikeja. Addressing the 1,600 prospective pilgrims through the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, Sanwo-Olu stressed that Hajj is a sacred spiritual obligation, not a recreational यात्रा.
He urged the pilgrims to maximize the spiritual significance of key rites, especially at the plains of Arafah, by praying for peace, security, and prosperity in Lagos State and across Nigeria.
According to him, “Remember Lagos State and Nigeria in your prayers. Seek peace for our communities, security for our nation, and economic progress for our people. Pray also for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all leaders, that we may be guided with wisdom and strength to serve justly.”
Sanwo-Olu further advised the pilgrims to uphold discipline and represent Lagos positively throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia. He cautioned against engaging in political discussions or protests, emphasizing that their primary focus should remain on worship and unity.
Providing further updates, Commissioner Layode, who also serves as Amir-ul-Hajj, revealed that the state government has upgraded welfare arrangements to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience. These include full payment for the Hadiyah (sacrificial ram), organized visits (Ziyarah) to key religious sites in Makkah and Madinah, and provision for Ihram garments.
In his remarks, Chairman of the 2026 Hajj ad-hoc committee and Special Adviser on Islamic Matters, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, commended the state government for its continued support. He assured that multiple sub-committees have been set up to oversee the comfort and safety of the pilgrims.
Jebe encouraged the pilgrims to reciprocate the government’s efforts by maintaining exemplary conduct and adhering strictly to the spiritual purpose of the pilgrimage.