2022 Hajj: We ‘II ensure a hitch-free hajj exercise – Osun Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board

● As first batch of 413 intending pilgrims departs Nigeria for Saudi Arabia

By Richard Akintade, Osogbo

Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has reiterated its commitment to ensure a hitch-free hajj for all intending pilgrims from the State.

This is as the first batch of 413 intending pilgrims departed Nigeria for Saudi Arabia on Monday afternoon.

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Speaking to newsmen shortly after their departure, the State’s Amirul-Hajj, Dr Moruf Ishola, said necessary mechanisms had been put in place to guarantee the welfare and well-being of the intending pilgrims from the State.

Recall that the State government under the leadership of Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, on Sunday, held a farewell ceremony for the 660 intending pilgrims from the State.

Dr Ishola disclosed that 413 out of the cleared 660 intending pilgrims from Osun were airlifted to Madinah, Saudi Arabia on Monday afternoon. Of the 413 intending pilgrims, 221 are females while 192 are males.

He disclosed that the second batch of the prospective pilgrims was scheduled to jet out of the country on Thursday this week.

Also speaking, the Administrative Secretary of the Board, Mr Bolaji Sanni, said some of the intending pilgrims on the first batch that departed Nigeria for Madinah were expected to spend a week before moving to Mecca next week.