Hajj 2025: Sanwo-Olu Sponsors Free Medical Screening for 1,400 Intending Pilgrims
As part of efforts to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims ahead of the 2025 Hajj, the Lagos State Government has commenced free medical screening for 1,400 intending pilgrims, courtesy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat.
The medical initiative, which began over the weekend at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Ajarah, is organised by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and targets pilgrims from Badagry and Ojo Local Government Areas.
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, who flagged off the screening, stated that the health check is mandatory and aimed at safeguarding the well-being of pilgrims before, during, and after the spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia.
“This free medical screening is a proactive move by Governor Sanwo-Olu to ensure that all pilgrims are physically fit for the Hajj. Those who fail to participate may not be allowed to embark on the pilgrimage,” Layode warned.
He applauded the decision to decentralise the medical exercise, which makes it more accessible and seamless for participants across different zones in the state. He urged the pilgrims to act as ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.
Also speaking at the event, the Secretary of the Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, reminded the pilgrims that good health is a key requirement for participating in the Hajj rites and encouraged them to maintain discipline and pray for the peace and progress of Nigeria.
Dr. Mezeedat Erinosho, Director of Medical, Admin, Training, and Programmes at the Ministry of Health, said the screening exercise reflects the state’s broader commitment to encouraging health-seeking behavior among Lagosians. She emphasized that pilgrims will also receive vaccinations and other holistic medical care during the process.
Many of the intending pilgrims expressed gratitude to the state government for the initiative, noting that the free screening had lifted a significant financial burden off their shoulders.
“We thought we would be paying N50,000 to N100,000 for the medical screening, but getting it for free is a big relief. We thank Governor Sanwo-Olu for this gesture,” said Mrs. Kafayat Kelani, one of the beneficiaries.
Another pilgrim, Alfa Tajudeen Folorunso, commended the dedication of health workers and described the exercise as “very interesting and well-coordinated.”
The screening is part of a larger health preparedness strategy by the Lagos State Government to ensure that all pilgrims are in good health and able to fully participate in the Hajj rites without medical complications.
