A total of 1,315 pilgrims from Lagos State gathered on the sacred plain of Arafah on Thursday, the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, to offer heartfelt prayers for Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
The gathering, a major highlight of the Hajj pilgrimage, represents a pivotal moment for all pilgrims.
According to Islamic tradition, being present at Arafah is essential for the validity of the Hajj, and it is only after this rite that pilgrims are conferred the titles of Alhaji and Alhaja.
In addition to the prayers, the pilgrims attended a special lecture delivered by Imam (Engr.) Shakiru Ayinde Gafar, who explained the spiritual significance of Arafah.
He noted that it was the meeting point of Prophet Adam and his wife Hawau (Eve) after they were expelled from Paradise, marking the beginning of mankind’s journey of repentance and divine mercy.
The event’s high point was the formal declaration of all participants as legitimate Alhajis and Alhajas by the Lagos State Amir-ul-Hajj and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode.
He congratulated the pilgrims on reaching this spiritual milestone and urged them to embody the lessons of Hajj in their daily lives, businesses, and relationships.
Layode also expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Hamzat, who reached out via video call to felicitate with the pilgrims.
He extended his gratitude to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa and other government officials for their support and contributions towards the successful coordination of the Hajj.
The 2025 Lagos pilgrims began the core rites of Hajj on Wednesday, the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, with their journey from Makkah to Mina.
From Mina, they proceeded to Arafah on Thursday, and are expected to move to Muzdalifah later that evening to collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil at the Jamarat, which will take place from Friday, the 10th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, in accordance with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
