As States continue airlifting their pilgrims for the 2023 Hajj, all 1,835 pilgrims from Osun State are now in Saudi Arabia.
Sakiru Oyewale in a telephone conversation with newsmen stated that the last batch left the shores of Nigeria on Friday and touched down safely in Madeenah hale and hearty.
The pilgrims will now proceed pre-hajj activities such as circumnavigating the Kaa’bah, walking between mountains of Safa(md) and Marwa(mmd) and visits to historical places such as the Prophet’s mosque.
Arafah which is the height of Hajj comes up the day before Eidul Kabeer.
Recall that Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has urged intending pilgrims to pray for economic revival of Nigeria and against insecurity in Osun State.
This plea was part of Adeleke’s address to the 1,835 intending pilgrims at a farewell programme organised for them at State Secretariat Mosque Complex Abere.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, Adeleke also appreciated the efforts of the management of the Osun State Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Board in facilitating the arrangements.
He said, “As I am thankful to Allah for allowing this record to be set under my administration, I am equally thanking the Almighty Allah, on behalf of you, our esteemed Pilgrims, for counting you worthy of partaking in this year’s Hajj operation despite the significant rise in the cost.
“As ambassadors of Osun state in Saudi for about one month, I advise you to concentrate on the exercise whose reward is here and hereafter and steer clear of acts that can splash mud in your integrity and that of our dear state.
“As a government, wo will not tolerate any lapses during the Hajj operation.
“I pray the Almighty Allah to crown your efforts with a resounding success,” he said.
OSBC
