A total of 428 pilgrims from Ogun State have landed safely in Lagos after completing their pilgrimage to Makkah and Medinah in Saudi Arabia.

This brings the total number of Ogun pilgrims who had safely returned to Nigeria so far to 891, following the return of 40 pilgrims on Monday, June 24, 2024 and another batch of 423 on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, while the final batch, comprising 43 pilgrims were expected back to Nigeria soon.

Speaking with newsmen at Muritala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, the Chief Missioner of Ansar-ud-Deen, Ijebuland, Imam Hussein Oredipe-Mustapha, expressed gratitude to Allah for the successful pilgrimage and protection of pilgrims from the state throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.

He commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for ensuring adequate welfare of pilgrims, lauding the state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board’s officials for their diligence, saying the exercise was a testament to their dedication and meticulous planning.

One of the female pilgrims, Hauwa Danbaba from Imeko axis of the state, highlighted the emotional and spiritual impact of the pilgrimage on her and other pilgrims.

"Performing the Hajj is a profound experience that leaves a lasting impact on one's faith. The opportunity to pray at the Holy Kaaba and visit the Prophet's Mosque in Medinah was deeply moving. We returned home with renewed faith and gratitude," she said.

Another pilgrim, Alhaji Rasheed Sanusi Onward, from Ijebu East Local Government, noted that the pilgrimage was satisfactory, commending the smooth coordination between the state and federal Hajj Commission which contributed to the success of the spiritual exercise.