Final Batch of Ogun State Pilgrims Arrives in Saudi Arabia for 2025 Hajj
The final batch of intending pilgrims from Ogun State has arrived safely in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to participate in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
Led by the Amirul Hajj, Alhaji Samsudeen Adebayo Apelogun, a total of 247 pilgrims landed at the Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah at exactly 2:10 a.m. on Thursday, following their departure from Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Speaking to journalists shortly after their arrival, Alhaji Apelogun urged the pilgrims to conduct themselves with discipline and integrity throughout their stay in the Holy Land. He emphasized the importance of representing Ogun State and Nigeria positively by maintaining high moral standards.
“I enjoin you to eschew illegal activities, such as unauthorised movements, and refrain from carrying prohibited items,” he cautioned. He further advised pilgrims to adhere strictly to the instructions of both the Nigerian Hajj Welfare Board and the Saudi Arabian authorities.
The Amirul Hajj, who also serves as the Asiwaju Adeen of Ogun State Muslims, assured that the welfare, safety, and spiritual fulfilment of the pilgrims would remain top priorities throughout the pilgrimage.
He also revealed that the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has provided special welfare packages and support to ensure the comfort of all pilgrims from the state.
The first batch of 428 pilgrims had earlier departed on Sunday, bringing the total number of Ogun pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to 675.
Alhaji Apelogun concluded by encouraging the pilgrims to show gratitude for the support received by offering prayers for Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Ogun State as a whole, and for their loved ones.