…Exercise described as “fantastic and hitch-free”

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

LAGOS — The first batch of Lagos State pilgrims who participated in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has safely returned to Nigeria.

The group, comprising 423 pilgrims — 179 males and 244 females — arrived Lagos aboard a Flynas Airbus flight XY9014.

Speaking shortly after their arrival, the Chairman of the Lagos State Hajj Working Committee and Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr. Jebe Abdullahi, expressed satisfaction with the entire 2025 Hajj operations, describing it as “fantastic and hitch-free.”

He commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, the Amirul-Hajj and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Layode, and other state officials for their unwavering support, which contributed significantly to the success of the pilgrimage.

“We are indeed grateful to Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy for their continued commitment to easing Hajj operations in Lagos State,” Jebe said. “The Saudi authorities also played a major role, especially with innovations like the Hajj Pass, which streamlined the process and safeguarded the sanctity of Makkah.”

He noted that Lagos pilgrims were accommodated in some of the best tents and lodging facilities available, a factor which contributed to their orderly conduct during the pilgrimage.

Jebe urged the returnees to reflect deeply on the spiritual lessons of the Hajj and allow its impact to manifest in their personal lives, businesses, and everyday interactions.

While evaluating the overall performance of the Hajj operation, he stated that the exercise had raised the standard of Hajj administration in Lagos State and Nigeria at large. He added that continued collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and other stakeholders would further enhance future pilgrimages.

Dr. Jebe also assured that the return of the remaining Lagos pilgrims would continue seamlessly, in line with NAHCON’s scheduled airlift plan. All necessary logistics, he said, have been put in place to ensure smooth and safe homebound journeys for the rest of the pilgrims.