As the first batch of Intending Pilgrims depart to Saudi Arabia this Saturday,18th May, 2024 for this year’s Hajj exercise, Oyo state Governor, Seyi Makinde has tasked the state’s Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board not to compromise the welfare of 1070 Pilgrims of the state in the holy land.
The Governor who stated this during an official farewell ceremony for the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims to 2024 Hajj operation held at BCOS Open Field Area, Bashorun Ibadan.
Makinde emphasized the need for the Pilgrims to be good ambassador of the state in Saudi Arabia.
Governor Makinde equally enjoined the Pilgrims to pray for their families, government and the progress of the state during the hajj exercise, noting that his administration has continued to put necessary machinery in motion for the airlift of pilgrims from Ladoke Akintola Airport, Olodo, Ibadan.
In a sermon, the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Sheikh Teliat Ayilara admonished the Pilgrims to shun frivolities in the holy Land and perform the spiritual exercise according to the islamic principles.
Earlier, the Chairman, Oyo state Muslim Welfare Board, Sheikh Wahab Atere lauded state government for its support in making the 2024 hajj a hitch free exercise while calling for the completion of Pilgrims’ building at the Olodo, hajj camp and bus to ease the task of the board.
In their goodwill messages, former chairman of the Oyo state Muslim Welfare Board, Professor Kamil Olosho, former CCII president, Chief Bayo Oyero and a member of the Oyo state advisory Council, Chief Nureni Akanbi encouraged the Pilgrims to be united and pray for the state and nigeria as a whole in Saudi Arabia.