* Be good ambassadors, don’t fall victims of circumstance: Expert
* Hajj is spiritual investment with Allah – Ustaz Sherifdeen
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a strong warning to Nigerian intending pilgrims for Hajj 2025, cautioning them against ferrying prohibited substances to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The warning came during a sensitisation seminar organised by Hajj Mabrur Ventures Limited (HMVL) on Sunday, May 4, at the University of Lagos Mosque, Akoka.
Delivering the cautionary message, Mrs Latifah Fatola, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics and Staff Officer, Treatment and Rehabilitation at the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, reminded the pilgrims that Saudi Arabia maintains a zero-tolerance policy on drug abuse and trafficking.
“Do not fall victim to drug traffickers or allow yourself to be used as a scapegoat,” she warned.
“Be extremely vigilant. Bags can be switched or tampered with, and the Saudi authorities will not entertain excuses.”
She listed banned substances such as cannabis, heroin, and cocaine, while also advising pilgrims carrying prescription medications to ensure they have appropriate documentation from their doctors.
“Controlled drugs must be backed with a doctor’s prescription to avoid detention or prosecution,” she added.
Mrs Fatola urged pilgrims to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria, as the first thing Saudi authorities inquire about is the traveller’s nationality.
The Lagos seminar is part of a two-phase pre-Hajj programme organised by Hajj Mabrur, Nigeria’s leading private Hajj and Umrah operator. The second leg holds on Sunday, May 11, at the same venue. A similar event will be held in Abuja on May 10.
“Hajj is a spiritual investment” – Ustaz Sherifdeen
Also speaking at the seminar, Imam Sherifdeen Ibrahim, Deputy Director of Shari’ah Compliance at Halal Certification Authority (HCA), reminded intending pilgrims that Hajj is not tourism but a sacred duty to Allah.
“Hajj is a spiritual journey that requires sincerity and piety,” he said. “Those who view it as a wasteful investment miss its true value. Hajj is a spiritual business — one that yields eternal reward.”
Imam Sherifdeen emphasised the importance of preparing both spiritually and mentally for the pilgrimage, lauding Hajj Mabrur for providing proper guidance and training.
Health First: Doctor warns against self-medication and heat stroke
Medical practitioner, Dr. Folarori Hakeem, from Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), provided health tips to ensure a safe and stress-free pilgrimage.
Dr. Folarori noted that pilgrims had already been vaccinated for hepatitis B and meningitis, in line with travel protocols.
He emphasised the risks of heatstroke, urging pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid excessive sun exposure.
“Don’t self-medicate,” he warned. “Report any unusual symptoms to the clinic immediately. Chronic conditions like hypertension can worsen under stress and heat.”
He also advised all pilgrims to treat malaria before departure, even if asymptomatic, to avoid complications during Hajj.
Pilgrims praise Hajj Mabrur’s organisation and legacy
Some intending pilgrims shared their confidence in Hajj Mabrur’s service. Mr. Nurudeen Shonubi, Executive Director of FIC Professionals Network PLC, praised the agency’s personal touch and structured planning.
“They’ve been doing this for 24 years. So far, the experience has been reassuring. We’re hopeful everything will go as planned,” he said.
Hajia Fatimah Yusuf, CEO of Floxil Model Collections, echoed similar sentiments. She said her decision to choose Hajj Mabrur for her first Hajj followed a satisfying Umrah experience with them.
“They follow the Sunnah, avoid innovation, and are highly organised. I look forward to visiting Arafah and Rawdah,” she said.
Airlift Begins May 20
Alhaji Hamed Oyinlola, Head of Operations at Hajj Mabrur, confirmed that airlifting of pilgrims will commence on May 20, urging all participants to finalise preparations and ensure all documents — including international passports, Hajj tickets, visas, and yellow cards — are in order.
Muslim News findings also confirmed that the advance team from NAHCON departed Nigeria on May 5, ahead of the country’s inaugural flight scheduled for May 9, 2025.
“All is ready,” Oyinlola assured. “We are simply awaiting the day to commence this sacred journey.”
Some of the faces at the seminar
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