Lagos concludes successful 2024 Hajj operation, hails pilgrims’ conduct

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State government has successfully concluded the 2024 Hajj exercise, with the safe return of all 1,869 pilgrims who traveled to Saudi Arabia for the holy pilgrimage.

The final batch of pilgrims arrived at the Muritala Mohammed International Airport on Wednesday, marking the end of the exercise.

Hon. Ibrahim Layode, Amir-ul-Hajj and State Commissioner of Home Affairs, expressed his gratitude to the pilgrims for their exemplary conduct, saying: “We give Glory to Almighty God for the successful completion of this spiritual journey. I am indeed grateful to all the critical stakeholders that made this happened.”

Layode acknowledged some challenges during the exercise and announced that a Post-Hajj Conference would be convened by NAHCON to address these issues and find lasting solutions.

He also appreciated the support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Kadiri Hamzat, which contributed to the success of the exercise.

Dr. Abdullahi Jebe Ahmad, Special Adviser to Governor on Islamic Matters, and Imam Shakiru Gafar, Chairman, Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, also expressed their gratitude to the state government, pilgrims, and Saudi authorities for their support and efforts.

Recall that the Lagos State government had airlifted 1,869 pilgrims for the holy pilgrimage exercise, with only one recorded fatality, late Oloshogbo Isiaka Idris.

“We are all looking forward to the Post Hajj Conference, where we will dissect the operation for the year and look at areas of improvement in the coming year,” Layode said.