The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj to pray for peace, security and prosperity of Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu made the appeal at a one-day seminar for the intending pilgrims.
The seminar held at the Lagos Television Blue Roof, Ikeja. It was organised by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board.
The governor was represented by the state Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Layode.
He said that the Hajj, characterised by intense prayer sessions, provided a unique opportunity for supplications for the state and the entire Nigeria.
He said: “As you stand on the plains of Arafat and make your supplications, remember Lagos State and the entire Nigeria in your prayers.
“Pray for peace in our communities, security across our land, and economic prosperity for our people.
“Pray also for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others in positions of authority that God grants us the wisdom, strength and fear of Him to lead with justice.”
Sanwo-Olu described Hajj as a sacred obligation and a spiritual journey that demanded humility, patience and total submission to the will of Allah.
“It is not a vacation but an act of worship that tests endurance and devotion.
“I urge you to undertake the pilgrimage with sincerity, seek forgiveness, and return as better Muslims and responsible citizens,” he said.
The governor enjoined the intending pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria, urging them to abide by the laws and customs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“Your conduct in the Holy Land reflects on all of us. Be disciplined, law-abiding and respectful.
“Avoid unnecessary arguments or actions that may distract you from the purpose of Hajj.
“Look out for one another, especially the elderly and vulnerable. That is the Lagos spirit of compassion, unity and excellence.”
The governor disclosed that about 1,600 intending pilgrims from Lagos State would participate in the 2026 Hajj.
He said the state government had made adequate arrangements to ensure their comfort and spiritual fulfilment throughout the exercise.
According to him, the government has approved payment for hadiyah (sacrificial ram) and ziyarah (visitation to historical sites in Makkah and Madinah), as well as monetised ihram – clothing for each pilgrim.
“The state government remains committed to the welfare, safety and well-being of all pilgrims and will continue to improve on its support services,” he added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee for the 2026 Hajj and Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr Abdullahi Jebe, commended the governor and his deputy for prioritising the welfare of the intending pilgrims.
Jebe gave the assurance assured that the intending pilgrims would reciprocate the gesture by conducting themselves responsibly throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
