The Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board has launched a statewide vaccination exercise for Muslims preparing to embark on the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The vaccination campaign kicked off on Sunday at the Primary Healthcare Centre in Hadejia, led by the Director General of the board, Umar Labbo. Labbo noted that protecting the health of pilgrims is a top priority as preparations for the sacred journey continue.
“This vaccination exercise underscores our readiness for a successful 2025 Hajj. I urge all pilgrims to cooperate fully, adhere to health guidelines, as they prepare for this sacred journey,” he said during the event.
Labbo also noted the need for pilgrims to remain patient, respectful, and law-abiding throughout the Hajj process. He urged all intending pilgrims to actively participate in the enlightenment programmes organized by the board, which are designed to teach important aspects of the Hajj rites and offer practical advice for the journey.
During the event, Labbo explained that the vaccinations being administered include the meningitis vaccine, oral polio vaccine, and yellow fever vaccine. He said these vaccinations are not optional but mandatory as required by health regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In his remarks, Dr. Bala Ismaila, head of the Primary Healthcare Centre, explained that the vaccines are essential to protect not just individuals but the broader community. Dr. Ismaila added that while the yellow fever vaccine provides protection for ten years, the meningitis vaccine remains effective for three years.
He advised pilgrims to be alert for any serious or unusual reactions after receiving the vaccines and to seek immediate medical care if needed.
Labbo further assured that the vaccination programme would continue across all 27 local government areas of the state until all intending pilgrims are fully vaccinated. He personally monitored the exercise and administered the first dose to one of the pilgrims during the launch in Hadejia.
The Director General expressed confidence that the vaccination effort would build public trust in the board’s overall Hajj preparations and give pilgrims peace of mind as they prepare for their spiritual journey.
