The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has flagged off the vaccination of 1,200 intending pilgrims against polio, meningitis and yellow fever in preparation for 2025 Hajj exercise.
Speaking at the flagging off for the vaccination exercise held in Hadejia zone, the director general of the board, Alhaji Ahmed Umar Labbo, said vaccination is part of the criteria for a Visa to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
He explained that all necessary arrangements were made to ensure that no single intending pilgrim was left out of the exercise that will be conducted across all 27 local government areas of the state.
Umar Labbo reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to prioritising the health and safety of Jigawa pilgrims, saying that safeguarding the health of the state’s pilgrims is both a requirement and a responsibility of the board.
“This vaccination exercise underscores our readiness for a successful 2025 Hajj. I urge all pilgrims to cooperate fully, adhere to health guidelines, as they prepare for this sacred journey.
“I encourage you to be law-abiding and patient throughout the Hajj process. Please ensure attendance at all scheduled enlightenment lectures and orientation, to acquire essential knowledge on the rites of Hajj and practical guidance for the journey ahead”, Labbo stated.
In his comment, Dr. Bala Ismaila of Hadejia Healthcare Centre, highlighted the importance of administering the vaccines, which include the meningitis vaccine, oral polio vaccine, and yellow fever vaccine.
“These vaccinations are mandatory under the health regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The yellow fever vaccine is valid for ten years, while the meningitis vaccine lasts three years. They are essential for protecting both individual and public health,” Dr Ismaila said.
He also advised pilgrims to seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe or prolonged symptoms of any sickness.
