The Amir Hajj for Ogun State, Alhaji Samsudeen Apelogun, has expressed concern over the significant drop in the number of intending pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj, attributing the decline to the current economic hardship faced across the country.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday about the state’s readiness for the upcoming pilgrimage, Apelogun revealed that only 675 people had registered to perform the Hajj this year, compared to 1,200 in 2024.
“So far so good due to economic challenges and we are facing in Nigeria, the number reduced drastically far compared to last year. This year we have 675 compared to 1,200 of last year. Definitely we would be an able to cater for their needs far beyond last year,” he said.
He announced that the inaugural flight for Ogun pilgrims is slated for May 12, 2025, while their return is scheduled for June 12 and 13.
Assuring the public of improved services, Apelogun emphasized that the welfare of pilgrims remains a top priority.
He stressed the commitment of the Hajj team to coordinate effectively with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, aviation partners, and Saudi authorities.
“Our aim is to serve Ogun State, to raise the flag of Ogun State highly in Saudi Arabia. First and foremost our primary assignment is to take care of the welfare of the intending hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia 2025 and also look to into the smooth running right from the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), aviation and Saudi authorities and the safe return of intending pilgrims back to Nigeria,” he explained.
Apelogun expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to serve and thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun for trusting him with the responsibility.
“By the grace of Allah, we will do our best. We have the experience and have been there nothing less than ten times so, we would use this privilege to improve our Board and would not allow our governor regret the prestigious appointment bestowed on us in representing Ogun State and we would put the interest of the state above our personal interest,” he stated.
He also issued a cautionary note to intending pilgrims, urging them to maintain discipline and avoid conduct that could damage the reputation of Nigeria while in Saudi Arabia.
“We urge all pilgrims to go for supplication and prayer with discipline. Any action that could damage the image of Nigeria should be avoided completely. Almighty Allah will answer all our heartfelt prayers,” he stressed.
