Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has issued a strong health advisory to prospective pilgrims from the state planning to undertake the 2025 Hajj, urging them to prioritize their wellbeing before embarking on the sacred journey.
Speaking yesterday during the First Family of Lagos State and Ministry of Home Affairs Eid-el-Fitr celebration at Lagos House, Marina, the governor emphasized the importance of good health for the demanding pilgrimage.
By May, those travelling to Mecca will begin to travel. Please ensure you are in good health, Sanwo-Olu advised. If you are ill, refrain from travelling for the 2025 Hajj; stay back and pray here in Nigeria.
The governor’s caution comes as preparations intensify for the annual pilgrimage, which typically involves physically demanding rituals performed in extreme heat conditions in Saudi Arabia.
During the celebration marking the end of Ramadan, Sanwo-Olu congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the month-long fasting period, expressing gratitude to religious leaders for their spiritual guidance.
I pray that God will continue to keep us in peace and unity. We will continue to witness Eid-el-Fitr celebrations,” he said. I thank all our religious leaders for teaching us more about the holy book. I wish us more celebrations in good health.
The First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, used the occasion to emphasize the importance of compassion and charity, particularly toward vulnerable members of society.
As we partake in the celebration, let us remember the less privileged among us and extend a helping hand to them, she urged. True worship goes beyond ritual; it reflects on how we treat one another and how we contribute to the betterment of our state and our nation.
The event featured an enlightening lecture by Dr. Munirudeen Ar-Riyardy from Lagos State University of Education, who spoke on maintaining faith during life’s challenges.
Today’s lecture is about trials of life and how to maintain our faith in God no matter the challenges. We shouldn’t curse our leaders; we should avoid sin, Dr. Ar-Riyardy advised the gathering.
Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat echoed similar sentiments, calling on Lagosians to demonstrate empathy and compassion toward each other, while the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Layode, encouraged Muslims to continue adhering to Islamic principles beyond the holy month.
The celebration, which brought together government officials, religious leaders, and residents, reflected the state’s commitment to religious harmony and inclusive governance amid Nigeria’s diverse cultural landscape.
SANWO-OLU CAUTIONS ILL PILGRIMS AGAINST HAJJ JOURNEY, CELEBRATES EID WITH LAGOS RESIDENTS
