As the first batch of Ogun State pilgrims departed Nigeria for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the 2025 Hajj, the League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has called on them to maintain exemplary conduct and remain spiritually focused throughout the pilgrimage.
The Secretary General of the association, Alhaji Tajudeen Mustapha Adewunmi, made this known during a farewell gathering in Abeokuta, emphasizing the importance of dedication to acts of worship and avoidance of distractions.
“Avoid excessive photo-taking or idle activities,” he advised. “Let every moment be filled with dhikr (remembrance of Allah), du’a, Qur’an recitation, and reflection. As pilgrims, you are not only on a spiritual journey, you are ambassadors of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.”
Alhaji Adewunmi further urged the pilgrims to respect Saudi Arabian laws and customs and to show courtesy and unity with fellow Muslims from different parts of the world.
“The way you speak, behave, and respond to challenges will reflect directly on our country and our faith,” he added. “Let the story of Ogun pilgrims be one of discipline, decency, and devotion.”
He also reminded the pilgrims to seize the spiritual opportunity to pray for the continued peace, growth, and prosperity of Nigeria and Ogun State.
“You are among the few chosen by Allah this year. Use this rare opportunity to pray for security, progress, and mercy for our land,” he said.
Furthermore, the League encouraged the pilgrims to allow the spiritual gains of Hajj to positively impact their lives after returning home. “Earning the title Al-Hajji or Al-Hajja should not just be ceremonial, it must reflect a sincere change in your life. Be role models in your families and communities,” the clerics advised.
Meanwhile, the first batch of Ogun pilgrims, comprising 423 individuals, landed safely at the Prince Mohammad Bin AbdulAziz International Airport in Medina in the early hours of Monday, May 12, 2025.
Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB), Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo, confirmed their safe arrival, noting that the pilgrims have been allocated rooms and are resting after the six-hour journey from Nigeria.
“All pilgrims arrived safely and have been settled into their accommodation. They are well-rested and spiritually prepared for the sacred rites ahead,” he told journalists in Abeokuta.
He also urged all intending pilgrims to comply strictly with Hajj officials’ guidelines and to conduct themselves with decorum as representatives of the state and the nation.
One of the pilgrims, Alhaja Toheebat Quadri, expressed her appreciation for the smooth travel arrangements.
“I’m grateful to the state government and the Pilgrims Board. The journey was peaceful, and the accommodation in Medina is very comfortable. May Allah reward everyone who made this possible,” she said.
The League of Imams and Alfas also commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his unwavering support to the state’s Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and appreciated the role of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for ensuring a seamless preparation process for this year’s pilgrimage.
