Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has barred intending pilgrims who are sick from travelling for the 2025 Hajj.
The governor who advised them to ensure that they are healthy before embarking on the pilgrimage, urged the residents to continue to give thanks to God for rebirth, growth and collective development due to the just-concluded Ramadan.
He spoke on Tuesday at the First Family of Lagos State and the Ministry of Home Affairs Eid-el-Fitr celebration held at the Lagos House, Marina.
“By May, those travelling to Mecca will begin to travel. Please ensure you are in good health. If you are ill, refrain from travelling for the 2025 Hajj, stay back and pray here in Nigeria,” he said.
The governor congratulated Muslims on the conclusion of their month-long Ramadan fast.
“I pray that God will continue to keep us in peace and unity. We will continue to witness Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
“I thank all our religious leaders for teaching us more about the holy book. I wish us more celebrations in good health,” Sanwo-Olu said.
In her address, the wife of the governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, appealed to Lagos State residents to show compassion for the less privileged in their communities.
“As we partake in the celebration, let us remember the less privileged among us and extend a helping hand to them.
“True worship goes beyond ritual; it reflects on how we treat one another and how we contribute to the betterment of our state and our nation. I encourage us to renew our faith in Nigeria and remain steadfast in our prayers,” she said.
The guest speaker, Dr Munirudeen Ar-Riyardy from Lagos State University of Education, advised Nigerians to avoid sin to attract and enjoy God’s grace.
“Today’s lecture is about trials of life and how to maintain our faith in God no matter the challenges. We shouldn’t curse our leaders; we should avoid sin,” he said.
The state deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat, called on Lagos residents to be good to one another by showing empathy and compassion. “Be good to your neighbours and continue to have faith in the Almighty’s goodness,” he said.
The state’s Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Layode, urged Muslims to continue to live according to the tenets of Islam. (NAN)
