Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the payment of the sacrificial rams for the pilgrims performing the 2024 Hajj from the state.
The state governor also paid for the Ihram clothing and visitation to historical sites in both Makkah and Madinah in order to ease the financial burden of the pilgrims.
Sanwo-Olu stated this yesterday during the one-day seminar and special prayer for the intending pilgrims as the airlift commences today (Friday).
His words: “As your Governor, I am very much aware of the huge sum of money you paid as Hajj fare this year, considering the present harsh economic situation in the country. Our government is greatly concerned but we have no control over the fixing of the fares which is the exclusive right of the Saudi Arabian authority. However, I wish to assure you that you will all get value for the money you paid, as we have secured a befitting accommodation with necessary amenities for you in the Masfalla area of Makkah, which is a working distance from the Masjid Haram (Kaabah).
“During your stay in Muna and Arafah, you shall also be accommodated in the prestigious, more decent and comfortable ‘Tent B+’ designed to relief you of the harsh and very hot weather condition of Saudi Arabia which is about 35 to 40 degree Celsius.
Sanwo-olu said necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure that local delicacies are served during breakfast and dinner on daily basis.
The 1,875 pilgrims from the state would be airlifted by FlyNas from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos
Represented by the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General of the state, Lawal Pedro, SAN, the governor stated that the intervention was to cushion the effect of the huge sum of money on them.
“I wish to assure you that you will all get value for the money you paid, as we have secured a befitting accommodation with necessary amenities for you in the Masfalla area of Makkah, which is a working distance from the Masjid Haram (Kaaba).
“During your stay in Muna and Arafah, you shall also be accommodated in the prestigious, more decent and comfortable ‘Tent B+’ designed to relieve you of the harsh and very hot weather condition of Saudi Arabia which is about 35 to 40 degrees Celsius,” he said.
Representatives of the NDLEA, the airline, police, the medical team as well as the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) advised the pilgrims to adhere strictly to laid down rules and regulations.
