Towards achieving a hitch-free and seamless 2022 Hajj operation, Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has organised an orientation, screening, and inoculation for intending pilgrims.
The exercise which took place at the Arcade Ground of the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta had in attendance security agencies such as Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) with the State medical team.
Speaking during the exercise, Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Salau Dauda, emphasised the need for the orientation as this would guide them on ways to behave and what is expected of them before and during the holy pilgrimage.
Dauda, represented by the Director, Administration and Supplies, Alhaji Ajibola Taiwo, opined that screening of the intending pilgrims would avail the medical team the opportunity to know their health status and what medication to prescribe when the need arises.
In his contribution, one of the officials of NIS, Mr. Sulaimon Ogunremi noted that pilgrims are expected to subject themselves to immigration officers before embarking on the journey, to check the authenticity of their international passports and their expiration period, as well as counsel the pilgrims on how to be good ambassadors of the country.
On her part, the Chief Superintendent of NDLEA, Mrs. Morakinyo Oluseyi, admonished the intending pilgrims to refrain from carrying or taking illegal drugs such as Narcotics, heroin, cocaine, tramadol, kola nut, bitter cola, and so on.
Also speaking, the medical team lead, Dr. Rabiu Kusimo said the inoculation was necessary to guide against contracting diseases, saying pilgrims need to eat healthily and drink a lot of water to keep them hydrated.
Speaking on behalf of the intending pilgrims, Mrs. Ajoke Osipitan appreciated the Board for providing an avenue to know their health status.
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