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Lagosians excited as govt begins “Ounje Eko” food markets today

Published

2 years ago

March 17, 2024

Lagosians excited as govt begins “Ounje Eko” food markets today

Following the announcement by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu that the “Ounje Eko” food markets will begin sales of food items at discounted prices in the five divisions of the state on Sunday, March 17, Lagosians may flood the various locations to buy food items at friendly prices.

Sanwo-Olu had stated that the food markets would operate exclusively on Sundays from 11am to 4pm across 57 locations in the state.

The governor, who disclosed this during a live media chat on February 22, said the ‘Sunday Markets’ initiative was aimed at cushioning the effect of the high cost of living in the country.

In a statement on Friday, the state Commissioner, Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, announced the commencement of the initiative, noting that the markets would offer Lagosians a 25 per cent discount on staple food items like rice, beans, garri, bread, eggs, tomatoes, and pepper.

The statement partly read, “In order to prevent sharp practices and ensure the foodstuff reaches a large number of Lagosians, a voucher system will be introduced as the pilot scheme kicks off.

“Independent payment solution providers and food vendors have been identified and carefully selected to operate the process. They will also provide real-time data on the exercise for monitoring.”

Infographics provided by the commissioner revealed that the markets would be opened at 27 locations in Ikeja, six in Lagos Island, nine in Ikorodu, five in Epe, and 10 in Badagry.

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It also provided the prices of the food items.

A 5kg bag of rice would sell for N5,325 while 1kg would cost N1,065; a 5kg bag of beans would sell for N6,225 while 1kg would be sold for N1,245. Also, 5kg of garri would be sold for N3,975 while 1kg would be sold for N795.

Other food items include 2 kg of tomatoes for N1,800; 1kg of tatashe for N1,275; 1kg of atarodo for N1,875; 1kg of onions for N450; one loaf of bread for N750; two loaves of bread for N1,500; and one crate of eggs for N2,700.

Some of the discounted markets are, Agege LGA: Dairy Farm Secondary School, Orile-Agege LCDA: Saka Tinubu Memorial School, Orile Agege, Ajeromi-Ifelodun: AFRICAN Primary School (close to the Secretariat), Ikorodu LGA: Ikorodu Grammar School, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA: Zumuratu Islamiya Grammar School, Igbogbo, Ijede LCDA: Luwasa Junior High School, Ijede. Kosofe LGA: St. Emmanuel Primary School, Ogudu and Ikosi Isheri LCDA: Ikosi High School, Ketu.

The markets were zoned under Ikeja, Ikorodu, Badagary and Epe areas.

Expressing excitement at the development, a Lagos resident, Mr Sunday Akurulo speaking to our correspondent on the “Ounje Eko” food market sales starting on Sunday appreciated the governor, but however is expressed doubt on how long the initiative would last.

Akurulo, who is married with three kids resides in Dairo Street, Ikosi Ketu, said he would send his wife to the location in the area, Ikosi High School, to know if it is true what the government has promised.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu is a nice man, but I am not sure the government can keep up the good gesture. My wife will go to the market tomorrow (Sunday). At least lets enjoy it while it lasts.

Another resident, Mrs Patricia Ugorji, who is a single mother of two, and resides in the same Ikosi, said she might not visit the market because it would be congested.

The 35 years-old teacher said, “You know things like this always cause casualties, just like the rice sales at the Navy dockyard where people lost their lives and no one cared. I will rather continue to pray to God to provide for me than go and risk my life and time there.”

However, another Lagos resident and mother of one, Eberechi Dike, said she was aware of the Lagos Food Discount market, but owing to her current financial situation she might not visit the market on today (Sunday).

“It depends on how I wake up. I don’t have money anywhere now to buy any foodstuffs even though I need them. I will try next weekend and I hope by then it won’t be too crowded.”

But Mrs Abosede Odunayo, described the initiative as a welcome development, explaining that she would take advantage of it and stock her home with food items.

“This is a welcome development. I will be at the one (discounted food market) near to me to buy food items. I am always afraid when it is time to buy foodstuffs because of their high prices. This time around, I believe I will smile home after my time at one of the markets,” Mrs Odunayo stressed.

Lagosians excited as govt begins “Ounje Eko” food markets today

Related Topics:Featured food markets Lagosians

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Teargas, Chaos at EFCC as El-Rufai’s Supporters Clash with Security Operatives

Published

8 hours ago

February 16, 2026

Trends Admin

Teargas, Chaos at EFCC as El-Rufai’s Supporters Clash with Security Operatives

Tension gripped Abuja on Monday as security operatives fired teargas to disperse protesters and supporters of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, during a confrontation at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The standoff reportedly occurred when hundreds of El-Rufai’s supporters accompanied him to the anti-graft agency’s headquarters, escalating an already charged political atmosphere in the Federal Capital Territory.

Eyewitness accounts and video footage circulating online showed security personnel deploying teargas canisters as crowds surged toward the EFCC complex.

In one of the videos, agitated voices were heard declaring, “We will come back; when it clears, we will come back,” suggesting the group’s resolve to sustain their protest despite the crackdown.

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The development follows reports last Thursday that El-Rufai was allegedly stopped by security operatives at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, in what his supporters described as an attempted arrest.

While official details surrounding the airport incident remain unclear, the situation appeared to have heightened tensions among his loyalists.

El-Rufai, who served as governor of Kaduna State from 2015 to 2023, remains a prominent political figure and a key voice within Nigeria’s political landscape.

His tenure was marked by sweeping reforms as well as controversy over security challenges and policy decisions in the state.

As of press time, the EFCC had yet to issue an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding Monday’s confrontation or addressing reports of any investigation involving the former governor.

Security presence around the commission’s headquarters was significantly reinforced following the clash, with access to parts of the area temporarily restricted.

The incident adds to growing political tensions in the country, particularly as anti-corruption investigations continue to intersect with high-profile political actors.

Teargas, Chaos at EFCC as El-Rufai’s Supporters Clash with Security Operatives

News

NSCIA Secretary-General Clarifies Council Receives No Government Funding

Published

12 hours ago

February 16, 2026

Trends Admin

Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede

NSCIA Secretary-General Clarifies Council Receives No Government Funding

The Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, has clarified that the council has never received financial support from any government, either within or outside Nigeria. Speaking in Lagos at the 31st Annual Pre-Ramadan Lecture of the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA), Oloyede stressed that the NSCIA operates independently and relies largely on modest private donations to sustain its activities.

Oloyede, who also serves as Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), explained that in his 15-year tenure as NSCIA Secretary-General, the council had not received “a kobo” from any government. He added that fewer than 20 individuals have donated amounts up to ₦500,000 since 2013, highlighting that the council functions without significant external funding. He decried misinformation and divisive narratives suggesting government involvement under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Saad Abubakar, noting that such speculation undermines unity within Nigeria’s Muslim community.

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Speaking on the theme “Muslims: The Challenge of National Security,” Oloyede warned against viewing insecurity, terrorism, and banditry through a religious lens. He said extremists often cloak their violent acts in religious language, but such actions do not reflect Islam. “Islam cannot be determined by what extremists say or do. We have a duty to correct that narrative,” he said, urging Muslims to reject all forms of extremism while understanding that insurgency thrives on enabling political, social, and economic conditions.

Oloyede stressed that security is central to Sharia, emphasizing that a true Muslim is someone “from whose actions neighbours — regardless of their faith — are safe and secure.” He cautioned against reducing insecurity to regional or religious differences, noting that all parts of Nigeria face security challenges. He called on Muslims to embrace moral responsibility, civic accountability, and practical partnerships to improve national security.

Other speakers at the lecture also highlighted the societal dimensions of insecurity. Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, described insurgents as agents of evil and stressed the need for religious leaders to promote peace and guide followers toward positive community engagement. Lagos State Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa identified poverty and economic inequality as key drivers of insecurity and urged the government and policymakers to focus on job creation, education, and inclusive development as long-term solutions.

The lecture, part of the annual pre-Ramadan engagements, comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with complex security challenges, including insurgency in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest and North-Central, and rising violent crime in the South. Experts emphasize that national cohesion, interfaith cooperation, and community-led security initiatives are vital to tackling these threats effectively.

NSCIA Secretary-General Clarifies Council Receives No Government Funding

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Saudi Supreme Court Calls on Muslims to Sight Ramadan Crescent Moon on Tuesday Evening

Published

12 hours ago

February 16, 2026

Trends Admin

Saudi Supreme Court Calls on Muslims to Sight Ramadan Crescent Moon on Tuesday Evening

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has urged Muslims across the Kingdom to look for the Ramadan crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to determine the official start of Ramadan 1447 AH. The court emphasized that community participation in moon sighting is vital for confirming the beginning of the holy month.

In an official statement relayed by the Saudi Press Agency, the Supreme Court instructed anyone who spots the new moon crescent — either with the naked eye or using binoculars — to report their observation to the nearest court and ensure their testimony is recorded. Local centres have also been set up to assist observers in reaching judicial offices.

The Kingdom has established moon sighting committees across regions to coordinate observations and support public involvement. Authorities encouraged citizens to actively participate, noting that their contributions are essential to help Muslims across Saudi Arabia begin Ramadan in unity.

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Tuesday corresponds to 29 Sha’ban 1447 AH in the Islamic lunar calendar. If the crescent moon is sighted, Ramadan 1447 AH will commence on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. If the moon is not visible, Sha’ban will be completed as 30 days, and Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This aligns with centuries-old Islamic tradition of lunar observation.

Muslims worldwide, including in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, are preparing for Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. Astronomical forecasts suggest visibility may vary across regions, making local observations and testimonies crucial. Similar calls for crescent moon sightings have also been issued by authorities in countries such as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The Supreme Court’s announcement underscores the importance of lunar observation in Islamic practice and encourages public engagement to ensure a synchronized start of Ramadan across the Kingdom.