The Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, has described the Year 2025 Hajj exercise as a resounding success, noting that the entire process was hitch-free and well-coordinated.
EpeInsights reports that Layode made this known while addressing journalists at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on Sunday, following the arrival of the final batch of 224 pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The group, led by the Amir-ul-Hajj himself, departed Jeddah aboard a Flynas Airbus XY 9024 at 10:08 a.m. (Saudi Arabian time) and touched down in Lagos at 2:15 p.m. (Nigerian time).
The Amir-ul-Hajj commended the behaviour of all 1,315 Lagos State pilgrims, describing them as model ambassadors of both the state and Nigeria. According to him, the pilgrims adhered strictly to guidelines issued prior to departure and maintained decorum throughout the spiritual journey.
“I am extremely proud of our pilgrims. They were disciplined, compliant, and carried themselves with dignity,” Layode said.
He also expressed appreciation to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for their robust support and commitment to a seamless Hajj operation.
He particularly highlighted the free and compulsory medical screening sponsored by the State Government, which, he said, played a critical role in ensuring the pilgrims’ overall wellbeing.
“The screening initiative was unprecedented. It enabled us to assess their medical status early enough and prepare adequately. Thankfully, there were no serious health issues recorded,” he added.
Speaking with journalists, several returning pilgrims expressed profound gratitude to the Lagos State Government for providing what they described as top-tier welfare services throughout the Hajj.
They praised the arrangements for quality feeding, comfortable accommodation, and seamless execution of all rites in the Holy Land.
Many also encouraged future pilgrims to consider traveling under the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, citing the state’s consistent excellence in Hajj operations.
The Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, also thanked Almighty Allah for the successful completion of the exercise and safe return of the pilgrims.
He commended the efforts of all government officials and stakeholders who contributed to the seamless coordination of the pilgrimage.
Also aboard the final return flight were top officials including the Chairman, Airlifting and Manifest Committee, Hon. AbdulWaheed Lolade Shonibare and the Chairman, Bags and Luggage Committee, Alhaji Yusuf Araromi, among others.
With the return of the final group, Lagos State has officially concluded its 2025 Hajj operations, setting a high benchmark yet again in its pilgrimage administration.
