the Kehinde Oshilaja Foundation, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to welfare of people living with disabilities (PLWDs), has appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other governors to give PLWDs pilgrimage opportunities to Saudi and Jerusalem.
Speaking at a palliative distribution and get-together for members in Lagos, Founder, Kehinde Oshilaja, spoke as part of activities marking Eid-el-Kabir. The event took place at the foundation’s office on Simpson Street by Ladipo Street, Ebute Meta, Lagos.
“We implore Governor Sanwo-Olu, his fellow governors, and President Bola Tinubu to remember us whenever pilgrimage slots for Hajj or Jerusalem are being allocated,” Oshilaja said.
“We ask that at least two slots be reserved for people living with disabilities. Among us are Christians, Muslims, and even traditional worshippers — some of who journey annually to Brazil and Cuba to fulfill their religious obligations. We believe in your leadership and trust that this inclusion will be implemented.”
Oshilaja greeted Nigerians on Eid-el-Kabir and Democracy Day, noting the economic and health challenges confronting PLWDs.
“We are hungry, we are dying — many of us have no access to food and healthcare. We appeal to governments to act,” he said.
The event featured prayers, feasting, and a sermon by Sheikh Imam Rasaq Bello, chief imam of Ahmadiyya Central Mosque, Ebute Meta. Sheikh Bello urged Nigerians to embrace patience, unity, and religious tolerance.
“Prophet Ibrahim (AS) waited nearly 90 years before he was blessed with a son, and he remained faithful and fulfilled his vow to God,” the cleric noted. “Those in power must emulate this example — they must keep their promises to the people, especially the vulnerable.”
Read Also: Commission, investors partner on devices for PLWDs
He also called on leaders to be mindful of the plight of the masses, particularly those living with disabilities, stressing that governance must be rooted in compassion and inclusiveness.
The foundation expressed gratitude to sponsors and supporters who made the event a success, including the Ansarudeen Society, Ebute Meta Branch; Mrs. Olanrewaju of Selek Group of Schools; Alhaji Lateef Olanrewaju Sodiq; Chief Abiodun Jamiu Kakawa; as well as other stakeholders and well-wishers.
Special appreciation was also extended to members of the press, religious leaders, the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and advisers such as Hon. Ganiu Sofolahan and Comrade Wale Balogun, for their continuous support.
“May Almighty Allah reward everyone who contributed to this beautiful program, and may the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Lagos State continue to thrive in peace and unity,” Oshilaja concluded.