Lagos State government has completed the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage, with the safe return of the final group of pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
The pilgrims on board Flynas flight XY9066 arrived at the Muritala Mohammed International Airport Lagos with 401 pilgrims and 11 officials comprising 144 Lagos and 257 Osun State pilgrims.
Speaking to the journalists on arrival at the airport, the Amir-ul-Hajj and State Commissioner of Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode said the Hajj operation was a success.
The Commissioner who was visibly elated appreciated the pilgrims for their exemplary conduct whilst in the Holy Land, promising that the State would work to improve on the few challenges observed during the exercise.
“We give Glory to Almighty God for the successful completion of this spiritual journey and I am indeed grateful to all the critical stakeholders that made this happen.
“It was an encouraging journey with adequate preparations by the Saudi authority to ensure that all pilgrims had a hitch-free exercise and the effort of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON was also tremendous, as they put up a good spirit which made the exercise a huge success,” he said
Layode also extended his appreciation to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr Kadiri Hamzat for their support to the pilgrims and the Board, saying the support contributed greatly to the success recorded during the exercise.
In Lagos state, approximately 1,869 pilgrims were transported by air to Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.
Lantana Nasir
