The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr Kadri Hamzat, has sponsored a comprehensive medical screening for intending pilgrims from the state ahead of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
This initiative is in line with the governor’s directive that all pilgrims from Lagos must be medically certified before embarking on the physically demanding spiritual journey. The flag-off ceremony for the screening exercise took place at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat in Ajarah.
Hon Ibrahim Layode, Commissioner for the Ministry of Home Affairs and the State’s Amir-ul-Hajj, highlighted that the move aims to prioritise the health and safety of the pilgrims. He explained that the screening costs, which stood at ₦50,000 last year, have been fully covered by the state to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, particularly in light of the current economic challenges. Each pilgrim is already required to pay a substantial Hajj fare of ₦8,784,085.59.
Layode emphasised that the government’s gesture was borne out of compassion, noting that ten screening centres and health facilities have been designated across Lagos to facilitate the process. He stated that the results of the screening, which involves both blood and urine tests, will provide a clear picture of each pilgrim’s health and inform how they are managed throughout the Hajj.
The screening includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Tuberculosis (TB), urinalysis, pregnancy for women, full blood count (FBC), and kidney function assessments (Electrolyte, Urea and Creatinine). Dr Mazeedat Erinosho, the coordinator of the exercise, noted that additional tests such as TB and kidney function assessments were introduced this year to enhance health awareness and ensure all pilgrims are medically fit for the journey.
Board Secretary Mr AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin called on all intending pilgrims to fully participate in the screening, describing the governor’s support as unprecedented and a rare opportunity to undergo essential health checks free of charge.
Approximately 1,400 pilgrims from Lagos State are expected to perform the Hajj rites in 2025.