The Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. Abdul Hakeem Abdul Lateef has revealed that airlifting of State pilgrims from Saudi Arabia will commence from the 27th September, 2016 and span three days of back to back flights from the holy land .
Dr. Abdul Lateef, who spoke on Monday in Mecca, urged pilgrims to be patient and comply with the directives of government in respect of flight arrangements, adding that, “There is no sentiment in the arrangement, pilgrims will be airlifted back to Nigeria based on the sequence of their arrival into Saudi Arabia and as scheduled by National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)”.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the pilgrims will be allowed to carry 38Kg luggage as a result of the State’s gesture to offer additional 6Kg for each pilgrim in addition to 8Kg hand luggage.
He warned that the surcharge for any extra kilogram outside the stipulated weight will be paid by the affected individual as stipulated by the airline and also implored pilgrims to check the manifest for confirmation of their flight schedule as well as report any irregularities to the Board representatives for necessary action.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Muftau Okoya enjoined the pilgrims to use the waiting period to reflect on their ways of life, intensify efforts in praying for themselves, family, State and the country saying “Now that you have been renewed spiritual, be patient, prayerful and stay away from bad deeds that are not acceptable by Allah”.
He assured them of the determination and commitment of the State government to ensure that the right sequence is followed by NAHCON and the Airline operators in returning pilgrims home.
While imploring pilgrims to continue to be good ambassadors of the State, the Executive Secretary cautioned them against carrying prohibited items such as sharp objects, liquid products, perfumes, metals, gas and hot plates in their luggage.
