In preparation for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, the Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that all intending pilgrims will be required to receive polio vaccinations beginning Monday, April 28, 2025.
This initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, was revealed during a press briefing by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Abdulrahman Ibrahim.
“The vaccination exercise will commence at 10 a.m. across all primary healthcare centers within the state’s 20 local government areas,” Ibrahim stated. “It is compulsory for every intending pilgrim as mandated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj Affairs.”
He stressed that no pilgrim from Bauchi would be allowed to embark on the spiritual journey without proof of vaccination.
“We are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our pilgrims,” Ibrahim said. “Receiving the polio vaccine is not optional — it is a requirement set by Saudi authorities to safeguard the well-being of all visitors to the holy land.”
The vaccination drive also highlights the government’s broader efforts to prioritize public health, especially during international religious gatherings. Special arrangements, Ibrahim noted, would be made for female pilgrims who need to undergo pregnancy tests during the screening process.
“We are working hand-in-hand with healthcare agencies to ensure a seamless exercise. The safety of our citizens is a top priority, and this step reflects the state government’s dedication to their welfare,” he added.
The Bauchi State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board urged all intending pilgrims to visit their respective local government primary healthcare centers promptly on the designated day to receive their vaccines.
The campaign comes as part of wider measures across Nigeria to protect pilgrims and communities from the resurgence of polio and other communicable diseases.
