Hajj 2024 : Makinde Bids Intending Pilgrims Farewell, Charges Hajj Board Officials Not To Compromise Their Welfare
As Board Chair attributes achievements to Governor’s Support
The intending pilgrims to the Holy land of Mecca in Saudi Arabia from Oyo State for the 2024 Hajj activities on Wednesday gathered at the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo ( BCOS ) for the yearly farewell ceremony done by the state government.
The Executive Governor of the State , Engr. Seyi Makinde , While speaking at the event ,charged the officials of the State’s Hajj board not to compromise the welfare of the intending Pilgrims .
The governor noted that his mission for the board is to Airlift its intending Pilgrims at the Ibadan Airport directly to Saudi Arabia , adding that efforts are ongoing to bring this into a reality.
While reiterating the commitment of his administration to religious harmony , the governor advised the intending pilgrims to be good Ambassadors of the State in Saudi Arabia and see themselves as one .
The governor also emphasized the need for them to understand the primary purpose of their journey, which he said must be given priority over other activities.
He admonished them to pray for the progress and development of the State, themselves and family members.
In his Welcome Address, the Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board , Muslim Wing, Sheikh Hashim Atere , appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for attending to the needs of the board promptly .
Sheikh Atere hinted that all necessary arrangements have been made by the board to ensure a hitch-free Hajj activities.
He noted that Oyo State is the first state in the Southwest and the second State in the country to have all Pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia within the first week of the commencement of Airlifting for Hajj, a feat he attributed to the gesture extended to the board by the governor.
He said: ” Arrangements have been concluded, the board had secured a befitting accommodation very close to Haram for the pilgrims. Each pilgrim will know his or her room right from Ibadan, we have indicated their hotel room number in each pilgrim’s identify card to be worn right from Ibadan , this is an unprecedented feat in the history of this board .
“Your Excellency , local meals have been included in the menu list for our pilgrims, while all our pilgrims have been granted Hajj Visas
In his lecture, the Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Sheikh (Dr.) Teilat Ayilara, enjoined the pilgrims to be devoted during the Hajj exercise.
The event featured Quran recitation , Special prayers and distribution of bags to the intending Pilgrims. Prayer manual were also given for free, courtesy of Governor Seyi Makinde .