As the 2026 holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia approaches, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on the state’s intending pilgrims to prioritize intercessory prayers for the stability and economic growth of both Lagos State and Nigeria.

The Governor delivered this charge during a one-day seminar organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, held at the De-Blue Roof, Lagos Television (LTV) complex in Ikeja.

Represented by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Ibrahim Layode, Governor Sanwo-Olu reminded the 1,600-strong contingent that Hajj is a rigorous act of worship rather than a leisure trip.

 He emphasized that the spiritual heights reached during the exercise, particularly on the plains of Arafah, should be used to seek divine intervention for the nation’s leadership.

“I ask you to remember Lagos State and our dear country, Nigeria, in your prayers. Pray for peace in our communities, security across our land, and economic prosperity for our people,” the Governor stated.

 “Pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and for all of us in leadership, that Allah continues to grant us the strength and wisdom to serve with justice.”

Beyond the spiritual requirements, the Governor urged the pilgrims to uphold the Lagos spirit by remaining disciplined and law-abiding.

 He issued a stern warning against engaging in political debates or protests while in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, stressing that the focus must remain strictly on worship and communal support.

The Commissioner for Home Affairs, who also serves as the Amir-ul-Hajj, disclosed that the state government has significantly enhanced its welfare provisions to ensure a seamless experience for the pilgrims.

Key highlights of the government’s support for the 2026 exercise include:

“Full payment for the Hadiyah (sacrificial ram). Organized Ziyarah (visitations) to historical and holy sites in Makkah and Madinah and monetization of the Ihram clothing for every pilgrim.

The Chairman of the ad-hoc committee for the 2026 Hajj and Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, expressed gratitude to the administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadiri Hamzat.

Dr. Jebe assured the pilgrims that various sub-committees have been established to manage their comfort and safety. He noted that the pilgrims are expected to reciprocate the state’s gesture through exemplary conduct throughout their stay in the Holy Land.