Hajj 2023: First Batch Of Lagos State Pilgrims Arrives From Saudi Arabia

Eko Hot Blog reports that no fewer than 380 Lagos State pilgrims participating in the just concluded 2023 holy pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia arrived in Lagos State on Monday.

The pilgrims departed King AbdulAzeez International Airport, Jeddah, aboard a Flynas Airline XY 7656 at 11.30 am Saudi Arabian time and landed safely at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, Monday evening.

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The flight, described as a ‘Special Flight’ by the Amir-ul-Hajj, Prince Anofiu Olanrewaju Elegushi, had on board the elderly, those with medical challenges and others.

According to a statement issued by the Lagos government, there were 185 male and 195 female pilgrims, led by Hon. AbdulWaheed Lolade Shonibare, a member of the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, representing the Ikeja division.

Prince Elegushi urged the pilgrims to guide their new status jealousy, saying that as new Alhajis and Alhajas, they are like newly born babies without any sins.

The immediate past home affairs commissioner in Lagos added that in line with Islamic principles, their new status remains intact for at least 41 days if they can avoid committing sins.

He also admonished them to allow the exemplary conduct they exhibited whilst in the holy land to reflect in their dealings with others in every human endeavour when they return to Nigeria so that people can find them worthy of emulation.

The Amir-ul-Hajj appealed to the pilgrims yet to be airlifted to exercise patience as necessary plans had been put in place to ensure that everyone is airlifted back to Nigeria within the shortest possible time.

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While reiterating that the pilgrims should maintain the 32 kg allowed for the main luggage, Elegushi warned them to desist from carrying water and any other liquid items in their luggage.

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