Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to ensure they are in good health before embarking on the sacred journey.
Speaking at the Eid-el-Fitr celebration organized by the First Family of Lagos State and the Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday, the governor advised anyone feeling unwell to refrain from traveling.
Sanwo-Olu said, “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 emphasized that it would be better for anyone with health concerns to remain in Nigeria and pray for the nation rather than risking their health by traveling.
In his speech, the governor also encouraged Lagos residents to continue expressing gratitude for the benefits of Ramadan, highlighting collective growth and rebirth.
“I pray that God will continue to keep us in peace and unity. We will continue to witness Eid-el-Fitr celebrations,” Sanwo-Olu added.
Meanwhile, his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, urged residents to show compassion for the less fortunate during the celebrations.
“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,” she said.
The event also featured a lecture by Munirudeen Ar-Riyardy from the Lagos State University of Education, who emphasized the importance of maintaining faith despite life’s challenges and refraining from cursing leaders.