By Ayomide Otitoju
As part of its preparations for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, the Lagos State Government has begun free medical screening for intending pilgrims across the state. The exercise, which kicked off on Saturday in Badagry, is designed to assess the health status of pilgrims, identify potential medical issues, and ensure appropriate treatment ahead of their journey to the Holy Land.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, began with pilgrims from Badagry and Ojo local government areas, who gathered at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat in Ajarah. The Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, described the screening as a vital step in promoting the health and well-being of pilgrims and reducing risks during the Hajj.
According to Layode, the program is fully sponsored by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to building a healthier Lagos and warned that those who fail to undergo the mandatory screening may be barred from participating in the pilgrimage.
“This medical screening is not just a formality—it is a life-saving initiative,” the commissioner stated. “It will help reduce casualties by identifying health challenges early and ensuring necessary treatments before pilgrims embark on the journey.”
Layode also encouraged the over 1.4 million intending pilgrims from Lagos to represent the state honorably and to continue praying for the country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the leadership of Lagos State.
Also speaking, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, noted that physical and mental fitness are key requirements for Hajj participation. He urged pilgrims to use the opportunity to get a clean bill of health and offer prayers for the state and the nation.
Dr. Mezeedat Erinosho, Director of Medical, Administration, Training, and Programmes at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the screening’s broader goal of promoting a culture of preventive healthcare. She explained that the state had scheduled the screenings across different locations to ensure wider access, encouraging Lagosians to embrace regular health checks.
Intending pilgrims at the event expressed gratitude to the state government for providing the service free of charge. Alfa Tajudeen Folorunso commended the dedication of the health personnel, calling the initiative “commendable and impactful.” Another pilgrim, Mrs. Kafayat Kelani, praised the administration for alleviating the financial burden on participants. “We were initially told to prepare between N50,000 and N100,000, but now we’re getting it for free. We are deeply grateful,” she said.
The screening exercise will continue in designated centers across Lagos ahead of the official commencement of the Hajj pilgrimage.
