Be good ambassadors in holy land – Makinde charges intending pilgrims

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has charged intending pilgrims to the Holy land to be good ambassadors of the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Makinde gave the charge on Wednesday during a farewell ceremony for the Oyo State delegation to the 2025 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, held at the Hajj Camp, Olodo, Ibadan.

The governor implored the pilgrims to follow laid down rules and avoid acts capable of tarnishing image of the state and that of their respective families.

He furher urged them to pray for the state and federal government while in the holy land.

The governor assured that those to perform the 2026 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would be airlifted directly from the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan.

He said the ongoing upgrade of the airport to international standard would be completed before the 2026 Hajj operations.

According to the governor, the airport project has been progressing well and has become a reality that will impact the economy of the state positively.

He commended the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) for the successful planning and coordination of the 2025 Hajj operations.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Wahab Atere, appreciated the governor for his continuous support to the Muslim community and the board towards a smooth 2025 Hajj exercise.