Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has congratulated muslim pilgrims who are undergoing their holy pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The Governor, who addressed them through a telephone conversation, commended the pilgrims for their peaceful conduct and congratulated them for witnessing the special day of Arafat.

He prayed for the successful completion of the Hajj exercise and wished them a happy Eid al Adha celebration.

"This is to especially congratulate you on the successful visit to Mount Arafat, and I pray that God accepts all your prayers. I also pray for your safe return back to Nigeria after the completion of the whole exercise." He said. 

While commending the leadership and management team of the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, for their selfless service and efforts at ensuring proper coordination of the pilgrims, the Governor eulogised the Amir Hajj for 2025, Alhaji Samsudeen Apelogun for his leadership  style and humility.

"I am not surprised at his performance and the commendations he is getting. He is passionate about the promotion of Islamic activities, and that was one of the qualities we saw in him before his appointment as the Ogun State 2025 Amir Hajj. I thank him for living up to expectations," he said.

Speaking, the duo of the Chairman of the Board, Sheik Iziaq Oloungbebe, and the Consultant to Governor on Islamic Affairs Sheik Iskeel Lawal, prayed for the progress and development of the State.

While also praying for the Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and other members of the cabinet, including the Secretary to the State Government, Mr.Tokunbo Talabi.

The high point of the event was the announcement of a special donation of 50 riyals each to all the 675 pilgrims from Ogun State by the Amir Hajj, Samsudeen Apelogun.

"This donation of 50 Riyals each to all the pilgrims was done to subsidise the 375 Riyad that the pilgrims are expected to spend on the purchase of Ram which they would slaughter as Hady," he stated.

The Amir Hajj appreciated the pilgrims who were orderly during the exercise, urging them to maintain the standard and protect the good name and image of the State as well as ensure their safety and well-being at all times.