The final batch of 247 intending pilgrims from Ogun State, led by Amirul Hajj Samsudeen Apelogun, has successfully arrived in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The contingent touched down at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport at 2:10 am on Thursday after being airlifted from Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
This arrival completes Ogun State's delegation for this year's Hajj, bringing the total number of pilgrims from the state to 675. The first batch of 428 pilgrims had previously departed last Sunday.
Apelogun, who also serves as the Asiwaju Adeen of Ogun State Muslim, addressed the pilgrims upon arrival, urging them to maintain exemplary conduct during their stay in the Holy Land.
"I enjoin you to eschew illegal activities such as unauthorised movements and refrain from carrying any prohibited items. Please adhere to the instructions of the Welfare Board and Saudi authorities," he advised.
The Amirul Hajj emphasized the importance of being good ambassadors of Nigeria and avoiding behaviors that could tarnish the image of both Ogun State and the country as a whole.
He assured the pilgrims of adequate welfare arrangements and safety measures throughout their stay, noting that their spiritual fulfillment would be a top priority. Apelogun also highlighted that Governor Dapo Abiodun had provided various welfare packages to ensure the comfort of all pilgrims during the religious exercise.
In return for these provisions, he encouraged the pilgrims to pray for Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Abiodun, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Ogun State, and their families and friends.
The annual Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and is mandatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey at least once in their lifetime.
