2026 Hajj: Sanwo-Olu Unveils Welfare Package, Urges Lagos Pilgrims to Pray for Nigeria
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced a welfare support package for intending pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise, while directing them to use the spiritual journey as a platform to pray for peace, stability, and economic progress in Nigeria.
The Governor issued the directive during a one-day preparatory seminar organised by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board at the Lagos Television De-Blue Roof, Ikeja, where operational guidelines and spiritual expectations for the pilgrimage were outlined.
Represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Mr Ibrahim Layode, Sanwo-Olu stated that the Hajj exercise is not only a religious obligation but also a strategic moment for national intercession, particularly in light of Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
He urged the pilgrims to consistently remember Lagos State and the country in their supplications, with particular emphasis on prayers for peace, security, and governance stability under the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“You are among those chosen by Allah for this year’s pilgrimage. Hajj is a test of discipline, patience, and devotion. Beyond the rites, you must carry the burden of interceding for your state and nation,” he stated.
Sanwo-Olu also delivered a strict conduct advisory, warning pilgrims against any form of misconduct, political engagement, or activities capable of undermining Nigeria’s image abroad. He stressed compliance with Saudi Arabian laws and adherence to group discipline throughout the pilgrimage.
On welfare support, the Commissioner disclosed that the state government has approved the coverage of key components of the pilgrimage experience, including the payment for hadiyah (sacrificial ram), ziyarah to historical sites in Makkah and Madinah, and monetisation support for ihram clothing for all pilgrims.
He noted that approximately 1,600 intending pilgrims will depart from Lagos State for the 2026 Hajj and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening logistics, comfort, and welfare delivery systems.
Earlier, the Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee and Special Adviser on Islamic Matters, Dr Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, commended the state government for prioritising pilgrim welfare and expressed confidence in the operational readiness of the committees deployed for the exercise.
He assured that the authorities have activated sub-committee structures to ensure seamless coordination, effective logistics management, and on-ground support for pilgrims throughout the holy journey.
The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining service efficiency, discipline, and spiritual integrity in the execution of the 2026 Hajj operations.
