…Says Hajj camp nears completion

By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has announced a subsidy package for Muslim pilgrims from the state participating in the 2025 Hajj, as part of his administration’s commitment to supporting religious activities and the welfare of the faithful.

Speaking during his visit to the construction site of the state’s first Hajj Camp on Wednesday, the governor expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, disclosing that the project, which he flagged off last year, is now 70 percent complete and will be ready by October 2025.

Governor Adeleke, who was received by singing and dancing construction workers, noted that the 2,000-seater auditorium and administrative block at the camp would end the state’s long wait for a befitting Hajj facility since its creation in 1991.

“This project is on track, and I assure our Muslim brothers and sisters that the camp will be ready for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. This structure breaks the jinx of Osun being the only South-West state without a Hajj camp,” he said.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the governor recalled his shock last year upon discovering that Osun lacked a Hajj Camp, prompting him to swiftly initiate the project and instruct the contractor to deliver before the end of 2024.

Addressing 1,221 intending pilgrims from the state who are set to journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2025, Adeleke urged them to conduct themselves with dignity and serve as good ambassadors of Osun.

“As ambassadors of Osun State, you are not only representing yourselves and your families but also carrying the hopes and prayers of our entire state. Remember that Hajj is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual experience demanding empathy, endurance, and brotherhood with fellow pilgrims across the world,” he told the pilgrims.

Governor Adeleke also used the occasion to appreciate the support of the Muslim Ummah under the leadership of the State Grand Imam, Sheikh Musa Animasahun, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and infrastructure.

“I have approved the construction of a befitting mosque within the Government House and ensured the release of funds for the timely completion of the Hajj Camp. These are not mere promises—they reflect our genuine support for the faith and its followers,” he added.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Sheikh Maruf Ishola, commended the governor for introducing six different subsidies for the pilgrims. These include transportation, free medical services, and special provisions for the Sallah celebration on the Day of Arafah.

“These subsidies go beyond the regular Hajj fees paid by pilgrims. We are grateful to the governor and the Osun State Government for their generosity and commitment to the welfare of Muslim pilgrims,” Sheikh Ishola said.