Sanwo-Olu flags-off Hajj Savings Scheme

Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, flagged off the Hajj Savings Scheme for South-West states of the country, designed to encourage intending pilgrims to save towards actualising their dreams of performing the Holy pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as enshrined in the Holy Quran within a specified period of time.

The scheme is a tripartite arrangement between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), States’ Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Ja’iz Bank.

As gathered by Eko Hot Blog, Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the deputy governor, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, described the scheme as a welcome development, saying it could not have come at a better time than now that the global economic meltdown was affecting virtually everybody and countries of the world, including Nigeria.

He added that the launch reflected the spirit of oneness amongst all stakeholders and a demonstration of their commitment to key into the initiative and ensure the successful implementation.

“It gladdens my heart to note that this official launch reflects the spirit of oneness amongst all the stakeholders which have made it possible for all of us to gather here today to witness this historic event. It is also a demonstration of the resolve by key stakeholders to key into this initiative and ensures its successful implementation,” the governor said.

READ ALSO: COVID-19: Lagos Urge Compliances With Social Distancing Order

Sanwo-Olu, while commending the management and staff of NAHCON for finding Lagos State worthy of hosting the flag-off of the project for the South-West zone, assured the Commission of the state government’s support to all its laudable initiatives aimed at improving the narratives of Hajj operations in the country, including the Hajj Savings Scheme.

Speaking further, the governor called on Islamic clerics in the state to enjoin their followers to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocols as the disease is still very much around and active.

“The disease is still very much around and active, we must, therefore, ensure that we know our status and adhere strictly to the laid down protocols of social distancing, regular handwashing with soap and running water, using the hand sanitizers, wearing of face masks, avoid hugging, h,andshake, and large gathering, among others,” he said.