League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State has urged pilgrims from the State to be exemplary in their conduct, avoid excessive photo-taking and all forms of distractions capable of derailing them from performing the spiritual exercise of Hajj as first batch of the State contingent departed Nigeria for the kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Secretary General of the association, Alhaji Tajudeen Mustapha Adewunmi made the call in Abeokuta, before the departure of the intending pilgrims , stressed the need for them to be filled with dhikr( remembrance of Allah), du'a, recitation of the Qur'an
"Avoid distractions such as excessive photo-taking or idle activities. Let every moment be filled with dhikr (remembrance of Allah), du’a, recitation of the Qur’an, and reflection.
Every pilgrim is not just a religious traveler; you are a representative of Nigeria, and more specifically, of Ogun State. People from all over the world will interact with you"
The association emphasized the importance of exemplary conduct of pilgrims, reminding them to be good ambassadors of the State and Nigeria by respecting local laws and customs in Saudi Arabia and relating well with fellow Muslims from other parts of the world
"The way you talk, behave and respond to challenges will reflect directly on our country and our faith. Therefore, be exemplary in all you do. Respect local laws and customs, show courtesy to fellow pilgrims regardless of their nationality, and let your integrity shine. This is especially crucial in a time when the world is watching the conduct of Muslims globally. Do not engage in any illegal, aggressive, or disgraceful acts that may tarnish our image. Let the story they tell of Ogun State pilgrims be one of discipline, decency, and devotion.
The League of Imams and Alfas also implored them to use the opportunity of performing the pilgrimage to Mekkah and Medinah to pray for Ogun State and Nigeria as country
"You are implored to use the opportunity of Allah’s invitation to be part of this year’s Hajj to pray to Allah for continuous growth and development for our country, Nigeria and our dear Ogun State. Pray for Allah’s continue protection and security and tranquility in our land, beseach Allah for His abundant mercy to rain on our country and our State"
The clerics admonished pilgrims to let the successful performance of spiritual exercise reflect on their attitude on their return to the country by being role models in their respective families and communities
"The conclusion of Hajj is not the end of your spiritual responsibility, it is the beginning. You will return home with the title “Al-Hajji” or “Al-Hajja.” This title must not be ceremonial or cultural; it must reflect a change in your attitude, your commitment to the deen and your relationship with others. You must prepare to be role models in your families and communities"
The association then commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for the support given to the Ogun Muslim Pilgrim Board while appreciating the role of National Hajj Commission for Nigeria (NAHCON) in ensuring smooth preparation for the 2025 hajj exercise
Meanwhile the first batch of pilgrims comprising 423 persons from Ogun State arrived the Prince Mohammad Bin AbdulAziz International Airport in the early hours of Monday, May 12th, 2025, for the Holy pilgrimage.
The Executive Secretary of Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (OGMPWB), Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo who made this known in a chat with newsmen in Abeokuta, says the pilgrims have been settled and allocated rooms to rest after the six- hour journey from Nigeria to Medina.
"All pilgrims arrived in Medina after an approximately six-hour journey and have been allocated their rooms. They are now well-rested and prepared for the sacred rites ahead."
He advised all intending pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Ogun State and the nation, emphasising the importance of compliance with the directives of Hajj officials.
One of the Pilgrims, Alhaja Toheebat Quadri, expressed gratitude to the state government for a smooth journey to Medina.
She described the trip as peaceful and praised the state’s efforts in ensuring the Pilgrims safety as well as the good accommodation arrangements made by the Board.
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