Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, have sponsored the compulsory medical screening for the state’s intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The initiative aligns with the Governor’s directive that all pilgrims from the state must be certified medically fit before embarking on the physically demanding spiritual journey.
Speaking at the flag-off of the medical exercise held at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, Ajarah, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul-Hajj, Hon. Ibrahim Layode, said the state government prioritises the health and safety of pilgrims.
He noted that the full sponsorship of the screening is a response to the economic hardship facing many residents, especially after the payment of the Hajj fare, which stands at ₦8,784,085.59.
“Mr. Governor and his deputy are deeply concerned about the financial burden on intending pilgrims and have therefore decided to absorb the cost of the medical screening, which was ₦50,000 last year,” Layode said.
He added that ten designated screening centres have been established across the state, reflecting the seriousness with which the administration views the wellbeing of its pilgrims.
The screening includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis, Urinalysis, pregnancy (for women), Full Blood Count (FBC), and Electrolyte, Urea and Creatinine (E, U + Cr) to evaluate kidney function.
Coordinator of the exercise, Dr. Mazeedat Erinosho, said the inclusion of additional tests this year is aimed at providing a more comprehensive health assessment to ensure pilgrims are in optimal condition before the trip.
Board Secretary, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, urged all intending pilgrims to take full advantage of the free screening, describing the gesture by the Governor and his deputy as unprecedented.
No fewer than 1,400 pilgrims are expected to perform the 2025 Hajj rites from Lagos State.
