Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has supported Osun State pilgrims who are currently in Makkah with 100 Saudi Riyals each .
The gesture from the personal pus of the governor was in celebration of the peaceful conduct of the pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Ileya Festival.
The gesture, which touched all 980 pilgrims from the state, was announced on Saturday by the Amir-ul-Hajj and Chairman of the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Maruf Olawale Ishola.
Governor Adeleke, who has been closely monitoring the pilgrims’ activities, said the reward was a direct response to glowing reports of their exemplary behaviour.
According to him, the Osun contingent stood out for their maturity, strict adherence to Saudi laws, and positive representation of the state. Notably, not a single Osun pilgrim was cited for any infraction.
The governor described the pilgrims as “worthy ambassadors” of Osun State, commending their sense of responsibility and devotion throughout the sacred journey. He urged them to sustain their prayers for peace, progress, and security in Osun State and Nigeria as a whole, emphasizing the power of spiritual intervention in tackling the country’s challenges.
“This latest welfare intervention further underscores Governor Adeleke’s commitment to the well-being of citizens, even while they are thousands of miles away”.
He also applauded the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board for the seamless coordination of this year’s Hajj exercise.
Speaking on behalf of the pilgrims, Sheikh Ishola , expressed deep gratitude for the governor’s kind gesture, noting that the cash support came at the right time and would uplift their morale as they conclude the pilgrimage and prepare to return home.
He credited the smooth operation to the pilgrims’ cooperation and the hard work of the board’s officials on ground in Saudi Arabia.
The reward has been warmly received, reinforcing the bond between the state government and its citizens .
