metro

Hajj 2026: Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Join 1,600 Lagos Pilgrims in Arafah Prayer

Published

5 months ago

May 27, 2026

Hajj 2026: Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Join 1,600 Lagos Pilgrims in Arafah Prayer

LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a heartfelt display of leadership and spiritual solidarity, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, joined the 1,600 Lagos pilgrims performing this year’s Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a solemn prayer session on the plains of Mount Arafah on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 — the most critical day of the annual Islamic pilgrimage. The Governor and his Deputy made separate video calls to the state’s pilgrims as they gathered at the sacred site, marking the spiritual climax of Hajj 2026. The Day of Arafah, observed on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, is when pilgrims seek divine mercy, forgiveness, and blessings.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who initiated the first video call, congratulated the pilgrims on successfully reaching Mount Arafah and prayed for a rewarding and accepted Hajj. He also offered prayers for their safe return to Nigeria after the completion of all religious rites. “May Allah accept your prayers and grant you all a safe journey back home,” the Governor was quoted as saying during the call. Dr. Hamzat, in his own video address, prayed for the pilgrims and urged them not to take the privilege of performing Hajj for granted. He described the pilgrimage as a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual opportunity that must be guarded jealously. “This is a rare blessing. Use it wisely to pray for yourselves, your families, and the peace of Lagos State and Nigeria,” Hamzat told the pilgrims.

Pilgrims Pray for Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Victory, Tinubu Re-Election – In a touching show of reciprocity, the Lagos pilgrims expressed deep appreciation for the video calls. They offered prayers for the continued success of the Sanwo-Olu administration, for Dr. Hamzat’s anticipated victory as the incoming Governor of Lagos State, and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general elections. The pilgrims, many of whom were moved to tears by the gesture, described the calls as unprecedented and a clear demonstration of a leadership that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens even in the Holy Land.

Governor’s Gift: 200 Saudi Riyals for Each Pilgrim – In a related development that further underscored the state government’s commitment, the Lagos State Government gifted each of the 1,600 pilgrims 200 Saudi Riyals (approximately N70,000). This was disclosed on Saturday by the Amir-ul-Hajj and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode, during a pre-Mina-Arafah special prayer session organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board in Makkah. Hon. Layode informed the pilgrims that, apart from paying for their Hady (sacrificial ram) and Ziyarah (visitation to historical sites in both Madinah and Makkah), the monetary gift from the Governor and his deputy would cover the refund for Ihram clothing and provide a stipend for the Arafah Day observance. “The Governor ensured the money was released and brought to the Kingdom. This is proof of his love and commitment to your comfort and well-being,” Layode stated.

READ ALSO:

Officials Praise Pilgrims’ Good Conduct – Speaking on the overall conduct of the state’s contingent, Amir-ul-Hajj Hon. Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Hamzat for connecting with the pilgrims virtually, stressing that the gesture showed their compassion and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the 1,600 Lagos pilgrims. Layode also commended the pilgrims for their exemplary good conduct throughout the Hajj operations so far. Layode further confirmed the return schedule for the pilgrims. According to him, the airlifting of Lagos pilgrims back to Nigeria will begin on June 6, 2026, in strict compliance with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) timetable. He assured that all 1,600 pilgrims would be airlifted within one week, with no pilgrim left behind.

Saudi Authorities Commended for Improved Facilities – The Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, praised the Lagos pilgrims for being orderly, law-abiding, and maintaining the high standards expected of them. He also thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Hamzat for finding time to call and pray for the pilgrims, noting that the gesture had significantly boosted their morale. Dr. Jebe also commended the Saudi Arabian authorities for notable improvements at the Arafah camps this year. He highlighted the provision of more functional air conditioners, additional toilet facilities, and adequate water supply as key upgrades that made the pilgrims’ stay more comfortable despite the intense heat.

Hajj Operation Seamless, Says Board Secretary – On his part, the Board Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, appreciated the State Government for making the entire Hajj operation seamless and convenient for the pilgrims. He listed several programmes put in place by the government to ensure a stress-free exercise, including free medical screening for all pilgrims before departure, inoculation against infectious diseases, payment for Ihram clothing, payment for Hady ram (sacrificial animal), visa processing, and other logistical arrangements. Mr. Ajomagberin added a strong endorsement for the state’s Hajj services, saying: “For us in Lagos State, we are very proud of the Governor and the Deputy. We are encouraging those who want to perform the 2027 Hajj to patronise Lagos, because we have the expertise and the record is there for everyone to see.”

Key Takeaways from the 2026 Lagos Hajj Operation – The Lagos State Government’s comprehensive support for the 1,600 pilgrims included full coverage of Hady ram, Ihram clothing, visa processing, and medical screenings. The pilgrims observed the spiritual climax of Hajj at Mount Arafah on May 26, 2026, and are scheduled to return to Nigeria beginning June 6, 2026. Each pilgrim also received a cash gift of 200 Saudi Riyals (approximately N70,000). Facility upgrades at the Arafah camps, including improved air conditioning, additional toilets, and adequate water supply, were also noted by state officials.

Hajj 2026: Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Join 1,600 Lagos Pilgrims in Arafah Prayer

Related Topics:Hamzat Pilgrims Sanwo-Olu

Up Next

Several Fighters Killed As NAF Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Hideouts in Sambisa

Don't Miss

“Retract or Face Lawsuit”: Adeyanju Demands Apology from Onwuka Over Defamatory Posts

metro

EFCC Wins ₦132m Money Laundering Case as Court Orders Forfeiture of Lagos Properties

Published

8 hours ago

October 10, 2026

Trends Admin

Lagos-based businessman Onatayo Pelumi

EFCC Wins ₦132m Money Laundering Case as Court Orders Forfeiture of Lagos Properties

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of Lagos-based businessman Onatayo Pelumi over alleged money laundering involving approximately ₦132 million, with the Federal High Court in Lagos ordering the forfeiture of two properties and ₦8 million to the Federal Government.

Justice Osiagor of the Federal High Court, Lagos, convicted Pelumi on five counts relating to the retention of proceeds of unlawful activities in bank accounts maintained with Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) and Zenith Bank.

According to the EFCC, the charges covered various sums allegedly retained in the accounts between January 2023 and June 2026, despite the defendant’s knowledge that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities.

The commission did not provide further details about the specific unlawful activities from which the money was allegedly derived.

In his judgment, Justice Osiagor sentenced Pelumi to three years’ imprisonment, with an option of a ₦300,000 fine, on the first count.

READ ALSO:

For each of the remaining four counts, the court imposed five years’ imprisonment, with an option of a ₦300,000 fine per count.

However, the judge directed that all the prison terms run concurrently, meaning they are served at the same time rather than consecutively.

The court also ordered the forfeiture of two half-plots of land in Lagos and ₦8 million held in Pelumi’s Zenith Bank account to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The properties covered by the forfeiture order are a half-plot of land at No. 23 Michael Ayorinde Street, Abule-Egba, and another half-plot at No. 1 Yisa Street, Meiran, both in Lagos State.

In addition to the prison sentences and forfeiture orders, Pelumi was directed to undertake seven days of community service.

The conviction followed prosecution by the EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 as part of its efforts to investigate and prosecute financial crimes involving the retention of funds linked to unlawful activities.

The case also highlights the commission’s use of asset-forfeiture proceedings to recover money and property connected to financial crime cases.

The EFCC did not disclose additional details about the source of the funds beyond the allegations contained in the five-count charge.

EFCC Wins ₦132m Money Laundering Case as Court Orders Forfeiture of Lagos Properties

metro

Hardship: ACF Gives Tinubu Three Months to Deliver Relief, Demands Clear Timelines

Published

8 hours ago

October 10, 2026

Trends Admin

ACF’s Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Mohammed-Baba

Hardship: ACF Gives Tinubu Three Months to Deliver Relief, Demands Clear Timelines

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to introduce measures to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerians within three months, while demanding clear timelines and measurable targets for improving living conditions.

The forum said the Federal Government should move beyond repeated assurances that economic conditions would improve and provide specific commitments showing when Nigerians could begin to experience meaningful relief.

The ACF’s Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Mohammed-Baba, made the call during an interview with ARISE News on Thursday, October 8, 2026, according to media reports.

Mohammed-Baba said the administration needed to be more transparent about the effects of its economic reforms and acknowledge areas where the outcomes had fallen short of expectations.

He argued that government policies should be assessed not only by their stated objectives but also by their effects on households, businesses and the wider population.

The ACF spokesman cited the rising cost of living, declining purchasing power, increasing rents, higher transportation expenses and electricity bills as some of the pressures confronting Nigerians. He also identified poor road infrastructure and persistent insecurity as challenges affecting citizens’ welfare.

READ ALSO:

According to him, the government should explain how it intends to address these problems and establish clear benchmarks against which its performance can be measured.

Mohammed-Baba called on the Tinubu administration to outline what it expects to achieve within one, two and three years, arguing that measurable targets would enable Nigerians to assess progress rather than rely solely on official assurances.

He also urged the government to acknowledge the difficulties associated with its economic policies and communicate more openly with citizens about the challenges and expected outcomes.

The ACF spokesman maintained that the government should not expect Nigerians to endure prolonged hardship without a clear indication of when relief measures would take effect.

He said three months should be enough for the administration to introduce measures capable of reducing some of the immediate pressures on households, even if broader economic recovery would require more time.

The forum also called for greater accountability from political leaders, arguing that the sacrifices demanded of citizens should be matched by a commitment from public officials to responsible governance and improved service delivery.

Mohammed-Baba’s comments add to the ongoing debate over the impact of the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, particularly the pressure that higher living costs have placed on households and small businesses.

The government has defended its reforms as necessary to address longstanding economic challenges. However, the ACF’s position underscores the need for clear communication about the expected benefits of the policies and practical measures to cushion their immediate effects.

On the 2027 general elections, Mohammed-Baba said the ACF would assess political parties and candidates based on their commitment to good governance, accountability, anti-corruption, equity and fairness.

He said the forum’s position would be guided by the quality of leadership and the ability of political actors to promote responsible governance rather than automatic support for any particular political party.

The ACF’s central demand is for the Federal Government to establish clear deadlines, measurable objectives and practical steps for reducing hardship, enabling Nigerians to judge progress by tangible improvements in their daily lives.

Hardship: ACF Gives Tinubu Three Months to Deliver Relief, Demands Clear Timelines

metro

Adamawa Mourns as Fufore Loses Second Council Chairman in 18 Months

Published

8 hours ago

October 10, 2026

Trends Admin

Late Chairman of Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Dr Yahaya Sa’idu

Adamawa Mourns as Fufore Loses Second Council Chairman in 18 Months

The Chairman of Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Dr Yahaya Sa’idu, has died less than three months after assuming office, in a development that has plunged the council and its residents into mourning.

Sa’idu reportedly died at a hospital in Kaduna following a brief illness. According to Ahmed B. Yusha’u, the council’s Information Officer, the chairman died at about 1 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

His death came approximately 18 months after his predecessor, Shuaibu Babas, also died while serving as chairman of the council, making the latest development another significant loss for the Fufore community.

The news of Sa’idu’s death was confirmed in a condolence message by Aliyu Boya Wakili, the member of the House of Representatives representing Fufore/Song Federal Constituency.

Wakili expressed sadness over the death, describing it as a major loss to the people of Fufore and Adamawa State. He prayed for Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

He also extended condolences to the late chairman’s family, associates and constituents, urging them to find strength and comfort during the difficult period.

READ ALSO:

The Adamawa State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) also mourned Sa’idu’s death. The association’s state chairman, Titus Obadiah, described him as a committed leader who served his community.

Obadiah sympathised with the bereaved family, friends, political associates and residents of Fufore, praying for comfort and strength for everyone affected by the loss.

The Adamawa State Police Command also expressed condolences to the deceased’s family, the Fufore community and the state government. The condolence message was signed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje.

Other political figures who reportedly mourned Sa’idu included Senator Aminu Iya Abbas, representing Adamawa Central Senatorial District, and Ahmad Lawan, a senior special assistant on security to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.

Sa’idu was sworn in as Fufore local government chairman on July 15, 2026, on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His death occurred less than three months after he began his tenure.

His predecessor, Shuaibu Babas, died on April 23, 2025, while in office. Babas’s death was followed by a succession process that eventually led to his deputy, Peace Samson Audu, being sworn in as substantive chairman in May 2025.

The successive deaths have prompted fresh expressions of grief among political stakeholders and residents of Fufore, who are mourning the loss of two council leaders within approximately 18 months.

As tributes continue to emerge, details of Sa’idu’s funeral arrangements were yet to be formally confirmed in the reports available at the time of publication.

The circumstances surrounding his reported brief illness have not been publicly detailed beyond the information provided by the council’s Information Officer.