The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board is set to kickstart the medical screening and vaccination exercise for intending pilgrims embarking on the 2024 Hajj journey.
This initiative aims to ensure the health and safety of pilgrims in accordance with international travel requirements.
According to Mr. Saheed Onipede, the Board Secretary, medical professionals from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) will conduct screenings for various health conditions such as diabetes, malaria, typhoid, hepatitis B, and pregnancy tests. Additionally, officials from the Port Health Service (PHS) under the Federal Ministry of Health will administer vaccinations against diseases including polio, meningitis, and yellow fever.
The screening and vaccination process will commence at 8:00 am daily from Tuesday, April 30 to Thursday, May 9, 2024, at the Shamsi Adisa Thomas (SAT) Mosque hall, Old Secretariat, GRA, Ikeja. The schedule is organized based on local government areas, ensuring systematic coverage of all intending pilgrims.
Onipede urged all intending pilgrims to participate in the screening exercise, emphasizing its significance in the Hajj process. Failure to attend may result in forfeiting the opportunity to perform the Hajj rites through the state. Additionally, the exercise will provide pilgrims with valuable insights into their health status, enabling doctors to prescribe appropriate medications and manage any health concerns effectively during their pilgrimage.
Furthermore, Onipede stressed the importance of representing Lagos State and Nigeria positively while in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He highlighted ongoing sensitization programs aimed at educating pilgrims, especially first-timers, on Hajj requirements and travel guidelines. Pilgrims were advised against carrying prohibited items such as hard drugs, cola nuts, and bitter kola, as Saudi Arabian authorities strictly enforce regulations against trafficking banned substances.
As part of the preparations, the Board has commenced the distribution of two types of Ankara (Aso ebi) fabrics to intending pilgrims through their respective Local Government Areas’ coordinators. These fabrics will be worn during seminars and on departure to and return from Saudi Arabia, promoting unity and serving as identification for pilgrims and state officials throughout their journey.
