Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the 1,600 residents preparing for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia to remember Nigeria in their prayers.
He said particularly at a time when the country seeks greater peace, security and economic stability.
The governor appealed a one-day seminar organised by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board at the Blue Roof of the Lagos Television (LTV) complex in Ikeja.
He was represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Ibrahim Layode.
Sanwo-Olu reminded the intending pilgrims that Hajj is a sacred spiritual obligation that demands devotion, sacrifice and humility, rather than a recreational journey.
📢 Stay Updated — Join Our WhatsApp Channel
💬 Be Part of Our WhatsApp Community
Join our WhatsApp Channel for curated updates, breaking stories, and exclusive insights from our newsroom.
📲 Join 👉 NRTC WhatsApp Channel
He urged them to pray for Lagos State and Nigeria while performing their religious rites, especially on the plains of Arafah, regarded as one of the most significant aspects of the pilgrimage.
According to him, the country needs divine guidance, peace and wisdom for its leaders to govern with fairness, compassion and the fear of God.
To support the pilgrims and ease some of the financial responsibilities associated with the exercise, the governor approved a number of welfare packages for the 2026 Hajj operation.
READ ALSO
Layode disclosed that the state government would cover the cost of the mandatory sacrificial ram, known as Hadiyah, for each pilgrim.
The government will also sponsor Ziyarah tours to important historical sites in Makkah and Madinah.
Pilgrimage
In addition, the state monetised the provision of the Ihram garments required for the pilgrimage.
The commissioner assured the pilgrims that adequate arrangements had been made to guarantee their safety, comfort and spiritual fulfilment throughout their stay in the Holy Land.
Sanwo-Olu also urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and uphold the values associated with Lagos State during the pilgrimage.
He warned against involvement in political discussions, protests or any activity capable of violating Saudi Arabian laws, stressing that the pilgrimage should remain focused strictly on worship and spiritual reflection.
🔍 Explore More
- NRTC English Knowledge Base – Learn, improve, and sharpen your English skills.
- Top Stories From Around the World – Stay informed with the latest global news and insights.
- Specially Curated Listicles – Discover interesting lists, guides, and deep dives selected for our readers.
- Stay Updated: Join our mailing list and never miss the latest articles and updates from NRTC.
The governor further encouraged members of the contingent to support one another, particularly the elderly and vulnerable pilgrims who may require assistance during the exercise.
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Ahmad Jebe, commended the state government for prioritising the welfare of pilgrims.
He also introduced members of the various sub-committees handling the exercise and assured participants that preparations had been concluded for a smooth and successful pilgrimage.
