ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj exercise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity of Lagos State and Nigeria during the pilgrimage.
According to a post on Lagos State’s X handle on Thursday, the governor made the appeal during a one-day seminar organised by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board at the Lagos Television Blue Roof, Ikeja, where preparations for the 2026 Hajj exercise were discussed.
He was represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Layode, who also doubles as the Amir-ul-Hajj for the state.
Sanwo-Olu congratulated the intending pilgrims, describing their selection as a divine privilege.
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“You are among the few that Allah has chosen this year to answer His call to the Holy Land. Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, and it is a journey of faith, humility, and total submission to Allah,” he said.
The governor reminded the pilgrims that Hajj is a spiritual obligation that requires patience, discipline, and dedication rather than leisure.
“It is not a vacation. It is an act of worship that tests your patience, your endurance, and your brotherliness,” he added.
He specifically urged the pilgrims to pray for Nigeria and Lagos State during important spiritual moments, particularly while standing at Arafah.
“As you stand on the plains of Arafah and make your supplications, I ask you to remember Lagos State and our dear country, Nigeria. Pray for peace in our communities, security across our land, and economic prosperity for our people,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also encouraged them to pray for national leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asking that they be granted wisdom and strength in governance.
The governor further advised the pilgrims to maintain discipline and represent Lagos State positively while in Saudi Arabia.
“The way you conduct yourselves will speak for all of us. Be law-abiding, disciplined, and respectful of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s culture and laws,” he cautioned.
He also warned against engaging in political discussions, disputes, or activities capable of distracting them from the spiritual purpose of the pilgrimage.
“Avoid unnecessary arguments, political debates, or any form of protest. Hajj is not a platform for anything other than worship,” he stressed.
Sanwo-Olu additionally emphasised the importance of unity and mutual support among the pilgrims, urging them to care for one another, especially the elderly and vulnerable.
Speaking at the seminar, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Layode, disclosed that about 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos State are expected to participate in the 2026 Hajj exercise.
He stated that the state government had introduced measures to improve their welfare and comfort, including provisions for sacrificial rams (hadiyah), guided visits to historical sites in Makkah and Madinah (ziyarah), and financial support for Ihram clothing.
“The state government remains committed to the safety, comfort, and spiritual fulfilment of all our intending pilgrims,” Layode said.
He added that the administration would continue improving welfare arrangements to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience.
Earlier, the Chairman of the 2026 Hajj ad-hoc committee and Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, appreciated the state government for its continued support.
“We thank His Excellency and the Deputy Governor for their continuous commitment to the welfare of pilgrims. We assure you that all arrangements will be implemented effectively,” he said.
He also introduced the heads of the various sub-committees coordinating the exercise, assuring intending pilgrims of a smooth and well-organised Hajj operation.