In a bid to ease the financial burden on Muslim faithful preparing for the 2025 Hajj, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, have fully sponsored the mandatory medical screening for 1,400 intending pilgrims from the state.
The announcement was made during the official flag-off of the medical exercise held at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat in Ajarah.
The initiative follows the governor’s directive that all pilgrims must be certified medically fit before undertaking the physically demanding pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, emphasized the state government’s commitment to the health and safety of its citizens.
“Mr. Governor and his deputy are deeply concerned about the financial burden on intending pilgrims and have therefore decided to absorb the cost of the medical screening, which was ₦50,000 last year,” Layode stated.
He added that the move was particularly significant given the economic challenges facing many residents, especially after paying the current Hajj fare of ₦8,784,085.59.
Ten designated screening centres have been set up across the state to facilitate the process. The screening includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis, Urinalysis, pregnancy (for women), Full Blood Count (FBC), and Electrolyte, Urea, and Creatinine (E, U + Cr) to assess kidney function.
Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, coordinator of the medical exercise, noted, “The inclusion of additional tests this year is aimed at providing a more comprehensive health assessment to ensure pilgrims are in optimal condition before the trip.”
Board Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, hailed the initiative as “unprecedented,” urging all intending pilgrims to take full advantage of the free service.
“This is a clear demonstration of leadership that listens and responds to the needs of the people,” he said.
No fewer than 1,400 pilgrims are expected to perform the Hajj rites from Lagos State this year.
