Hajj 2026: Lagos Completes Pilgrims’ Return from Saudi Arabia
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
The Lagos State Government has successfully concluded its 2026 Hajj operations with the safe return of all 1,600 pilgrims who participated in the pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
The final batch of 187 pilgrims arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, on Saturday, bringing the state’s Hajj exercise to a close.
Speaking with journalists at the airport, the Amir-ul-Hajj and Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, described the pilgrimage as a major success, attributing the achievement to effective planning, teamwork and the exemplary conduct of Lagos pilgrims in the Holy Land.
Layode said the state began preparations early despite strict timelines imposed by Saudi authorities for payments and visa processing.
According to him, the government ensured comprehensive medical screenings, orientation programs and welfare support for pilgrims before departure.
“We give all glory to Almighty God for the successful completion of this year’s Hajj. The success was achieved through teamwork and a clear sense of purpose,” he said.
The commissioner also commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Kadri Hamzat for their support, noting that their commitment contributed significantly to the smooth conduct of the exercise.
Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee and Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr. Abdullahi Jebe, said Lagos had developed a reliable operational template that continues to guide its Hajj administration.
He noted that although early payment deadlines initially posed challenges, government intervention helped pilgrims meet the requirements on time.
Jebe added that Lagos possesses the manpower and technical capacity to accommodate more than 3,000 pilgrims in future exercises.
Also speaking, Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, credited the success of the operation to coordinated efforts among stakeholders.
He pledged increased enlightenment campaigns on early payment ahead of future pilgrimages.
Several returning pilgrims praised the state government for prioritizing their welfare throughout the spiritual journey.
