The first batch of pilgrims from Ogun State to Saudi Arabia have returned to Nigeria after the completion of hajj rites.

The pilgrims totaling 400 comprised of 167 males and 233 females arrived Muritala Muhammad International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos at exactly 10:16pm on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, with AZMAN Airline QZ2345.

Speaking with newsmen on the arrival, one of the Ad-hoc Committee members, Sheikh Isqeel Lawal, thanked God for his mercy and protection of the pilgrims throughout the spiritual exercise, stating that there was no case of death being recorded.

Sheikh Lawal, who doubles as the Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, commended Prince Dapo Abiodun for putting necessary machinery in place for a hitch-free operation, appreciating the pilgrims for their patience and perseverance, and urged them to continue to pray for the State and the country at large.

He advised them not to deviate from what they have learnt during the pilgrimage, enjoining them to take the other four pillars of Islam seriously, as demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Salau Dauda, who confirmed the arrival of the first batch, noted that the flight that would convey the remaining pilgrims had been scheduled without any further delay.

In their responses, Alhaji Rasak Mutiu and Alhaja Sanni Kehinde who were among the newly arrived pilgrims lauded the government for the welfare package put in place both in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia, saying the effort of the Board had made the pilgrimage seamless.