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Tag: Lagos State

  • Obasa calls for unity as court declares his removal unconventional

    Obasa calls for unity as court declares his removal unconventional

    Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has hailed the Lagos State High Court ruling that declared his removal in January as “illegal, unconstitutional, and null and void,” calling it a victory for the Assembly as an institution.

    In a statement issued by his media office, Obasa expressed that the court’s decision was a win not only for him but for the entire Lagos House of Assembly, both current and future members. 

    He emphasised that the ruling “reinforces the desire for us as members of the House to move ahead in unity and harmony and continue to work for the good of our people, our beloved Lagos State, and Nigeria.”

    Obasa urged his colleagues to move past the issue and continue working together in peace and unity for the benefit of the state and its people.

    Read Also: Obasa consoles APC chairman over wife’s death

    On Wednesday, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja ruled that Obasa’s removal while he was on an official assignment to the United States in January was illegal, unconstitutional, and null and void. The court also annulled the proceedings and resolutions made by the Assembly on January 13, 2025, during which Obasa was removed from office.

    Obasa had filed a suit on February 12, 2025, challenging his removal, arguing that the Assembly was on recess and he was abroad at the time, making the session during which he was ousted unlawful. 

    He also contended that the session lacked proper authority, with no formal delegation of power from the Speaker’s office. Obasa named the House of Assembly and Deputy Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, as defendants.

    The court’s ruling renders all decisions made during the January 13 session null and void.

  • POWA visits Lagos First Lady, seeks improved support for police families

    POWA visits Lagos First Lady, seeks improved support for police families

    As part of efforts to attract better welfare for personnel wives and children, the Lagos State chapter of the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) has visited Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, at State House Marina.

    The delegation led by POWA chairperson, Mrs. Risqat Oluwatoyin Jimoh, appreciated the Lagos First Lady for all her support to families of police operatives especially widows and children.

    Mrs. Jimoh noted the consistent and invaluable assistance the First Lady has rendered to POWA, PWA, and LAPOWA over the years, highlighting her role in alleviating the suffering of widows and disadvantaged families of police officers who died in active service. 

    She praised Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of women, children, and other vulnerable groups in the state.

    Read Also: Oyo POWA empowers 303 families of fallen police officers with food, materials

    Mrs. Jimoh reaffirmed POWA’s mission to promote the welfare of police families through education, healthcare, empowerment and skills development. 

    She emphasised the need for continued collaboration with leaders like the First Lady to expand the reach of these initiatives, especially in areas such as food distribution, scholarship support, and vocational training for widows and children of fallen officers.

    Responding, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu assured POWA of her continued commitment to collaborating with them. 

    She emphasised the importance of collective action in supporting families of law enforcement personnel and pledged to further support impactful programmes that align with the objectives of POWA.

  • Court remands man for allegedly defiling 19-month-old baby in Lagos

    Court remands man for allegedly defiling 19-month-old baby in Lagos

    Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court on Thursday ordered the remand of one Peter Oshomah at the Kirikiri Custodial Centre for allegedly defiling a 19-month-old baby (name withheld).

    The Lagos State Government arraigned Oshomah on a one-count charge of defilement. 

    He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

    Following the plea, prosecuting counsel Inumidun Solarin requested a trial date. The defense counsel did not object to the request.

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    In his ruling, Justice Oshodi ordered that the defendant be remanded in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending the commencement of trial.

    According to the charge, “Peter Oshomah Jezomi on or about February 5, 2024 at about 17.25 hours at No. 8, DB Street, Shagari Estate, Ipaja, Lagos did defile one (names withheld) aged 1 year and 7 months old by having unlawful sexual intercourse with her.”

  • 12 important driving tips for staying safe on the road in the rainy season

    12 important driving tips for staying safe on the road in the rainy season

    As the rainy season approaches in Nigeria, drivers face unique challenges that demand heightened caution and preparation.

    Wet roads, reduced visibility, and unpredictable weather conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents.

    To ensure safety during this period, consider the following essential driving tips:

    1. Conduct thorough vehicle inspections

    Before setting out, ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition:

    Tyres: Check that your tyres have sufficient tread depth and are properly inflated. Worn-out tyres can lead to hydroplaning on wet surfaces.

    Brakes: Test your brakes to confirm they are responsive. Wet conditions can lengthen stopping distances, making effective brakes crucial.

    Windshield and Wipers: Ensure your windshield is clean and your wipers are functioning correctly to maintain clear visibility during downpours.

    Lights: Verify that all lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, are operational to enhance your visibility to other drivers.

    2. Reduce speed and increase following distance

    Wet roads can be slippery, reducing tyre traction. Lower your speed and maintain a greater distance from the vehicle ahead to allow ample time for braking.

    3. Avoid flooded areas

    Driving through standing water can conceal hazards like potholes and may cause vehicle damage or engine stalling. If unavoidable, proceed slowly and steadily through the water, staying on the highest part of the road.

    Lagos State, characterized by its low-lying topography and extensive coastline, is particularly susceptible to flooding, especially during the rainy season.

    Both the Island and Mainland areas have specific locations that are more prone to flooding due to proximity to water bodies, inadequate drainage systems, and rapid urbanization.

    Flood-prone areas on Lagos Island:

    Lagos Island: Obalende, Bamgbose, Ilado, Victoria Island, Ikate, Alaguntan, Maiyegun, Langbasa, Iranla, Badore, Iwaya, Makoko, Ebute-Metta.

    Eti-Osa Local Government Area: Obalende, Victoria Island, Ikate, Ilado, Igboefon, Alaguntan, Maiyegun, Langbasa, Iranla, Badore.

    Ajah: The town of Ajah is notably flood-prone, with heavy rains often leading to significant flooding.

    Flood-Prone Areas on Lagos Mainland:

    Kosofe LGA: Ketu, Alapere, Maidan, Agboyi, Owode Onirin, Ajegunle, Kara, Isheri Olowora, Agiliti, Mile 12, Odo Ogun, Owode Elede.

    Ikorodu: Majidun, Ebute, Ibese, Isasi, Ilemere, Baiyeku, Ipakan.

    Ojo LGA: Iba, Ishasi, Era, Egan, Etegbin, Igbede, Igbolobi, Ishagira, Tafi.

    Amuwo-Odofin: High risk of flooding due to proximity to water bodies.

    Surulere, Apapa, Ikeja, Mushin, Shomolu: Moderate flooding risks.

    Magodo, Ejigbo: Past incidents of significant flooding.

    If you reside or travel through these areas frequently, exercise extra caution, avoid flooded routes when possible, and stay updated on weather conditions.

    4. Utilize vehicle features to maintain visibility

    Rain can cause windows to fog up, impairing visibility. Use your vehicle’s defogging and demisting functions to keep windows clear.

    5. Stay informed about weather and road conditions

    Before traveling, check weather forecasts and be aware of areas prone to flooding or poor road conditions. This information can help you plan safer routes or decide to delay travel if necessary.

    6. Handle hydroplaning calmly

    If your vehicle begins to hydroplane (lose traction due to water), remain calm, ease off the accelerator, and steer gently in the desired direction until you regain control.

    7. Remain focused and avoid distractions

    Driving in rainy conditions requires full attention. Avoid using mobile devices or engaging in activities that divert your focus from the road.

    8. Emergency preparedness

    Carry essential emergency items like a flashlight, a first aid kit, a warning triangle, jumper cables, and a power bank.

    Have the contact information of roadside assistance services and emergency numbers handy in case of an accident or breakdown.

    9. Defensive driving techniques

    Be extra cautious of reckless drivers who may not adjust their speed to wet conditions.

    Anticipate potential hazards, such as sudden stops, skidding vehicles, or pedestrians crossing in low visibility.

    Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, which can lead to loss of control on wet roads.

    10. Public Transport Considerations

    For those who rely on public transport, extra precautions are necessary during the rainy season:

    Choose Safe and Reliable Transport: Opt for registered transport services or companies with well-maintained vehicles to minimize risks.

    Avoid overloaded vehicles: Overloaded buses and danfos (public minibuses) are more prone to accidents, especially on slippery roads.

    Read Also: Rainy season: Lagos warns against indiscriminate dumping of refuse

    Be Cautious at Bus Stops: Many bus stops are not properly sheltered and can become dangerous during heavy rainfall. Watch out for fast-moving vehicles that may splash water or lose control.

    Stay informed about routes: Some roads may become impassable during heavy rains. Be flexible with travel plans and check alternative routes before heading out.

    Exercise caution when boarding motorcycles (Okadas): If using motorcycles for transport, ensure the rider has proper rain gear, rides cautiously, and avoids flooded or waterlogged areas.

    11. Road infrastructure and government measures

    Authorities should improve drainage systems to prevent roads from becoming impassable during heavy rains.

    Ongoing road repairs and maintenance projects should prioritize flood-prone areas to reduce travel risks.

    Drivers should be aware of roadworks and detours that may impact their routes, especially during the peak rainy season.

    12. Alternative travel options

    Encourage remote work or flexible commuting when possible to reduce exposure to hazardous conditions.

    Suggest carpooling or using safer, elevated routes during peak rainfall periods.

    Consider using ride-hailing services with well-maintained cars to avoid unnecessary exposure to risks.

    By adhering to these guidelines, you can enhance your safety and that of others on the road during Nigeria’s rainy season. Always prioritize caution and preparedness to navigate the challenges posed by wet weather conditions effectively.

  • Govt to improve learning, others with modern school tools

    Govt to improve learning, others with modern school tools

    Lagos State government yesterday expressed desire to improve student’s academic performance, and reduce dropout rates through provision of modern school infrastructure.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed this at the inauguration of 12 blocks of classrooms at Ilupeju Community Grammar School, Ilupeju.

    Sanwo-Olu also did the same at United Christian Secondary School, Apapa, and Ipaja Junior Grammar School.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, he cited research highlighting the impact of well-designed educational spaces on student performance.

      “A study in the United Kingdom found that environmental and design elements of school infrastructure accounted for 16per cent of the variation in students’ academic progress.

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    This underscores the critical role that school facilities play in shaping learning experiences,” he stated.

      He reaffirmed his administration’s vision of developing a competitive public education system.

    Highlighting the importance of secondary education in shaping students’ academic and professional futures, the governor stressed the need to strengthen this level of education.

     According to him, secondary education is a pivotal stage that cultivates critical thinking skills essential for higher education and the workforce. Our goal is to enhance this stage to better equip our children for future challenges.”

    The governor also noted that the state’s ongoing rehabilitation and construction of classrooms have reached all divisions of Lagos, ensuring equitable access to quality education infrastructure.

    Addressing students, he urged them to make the most of the new facilities.

      “These classrooms are a testament to your families’ contributions through taxes. As the primary beneficiaries, it is essential that you utilize them effectively for your academic growth and development.”

      To teachers, he acknowledged their vital role in shaping future leaders.

     “These upgraded facilities enhance your working environment. We urge you to continue delivering high-quality education and to maintain these resources for future use,” he added.

      The governor called on community leaders, parents, and stakeholders to support education efforts. “These schools benefit not just the students but the entire community. Your continued advocacy and partnership will be instrumental in preserving these facilities for future generations.”

      Also, at United Christian Secondary School, Apapa, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to education as the foundation of Lagos State’s future.

      Represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Cecilia Dada, the governor stated that the newly furnished classrooms, modern science laboratories, staff offices, and administrative block at the school symbolise the government’s vision of providing a conducive learning environment.

     He highlighted the numerous projects undertaken by SCRPS to renovate and construct classrooms across Lagos, ensuring that no community is left behind in the drive for educational excellence.

      He stressed that education is the foundation for unlocking youth potential and economic prosperity and called on teachers, parents, and community leaders to take ownership of these facilities by ensuring proper maintenance and preventing vandalism.

     Addressing students directly, he encouraged them to maximise the opportunities available to them and strive for academic excellence.

      Acknowledging the efforts of the SCRPS team and contractors involved in the projects, the governor commended their dedication to delivering high-quality school infrastructure.

     At Ipaja Junior Grammar School, Ipaja, the governor through the Commissioner for establishment, training and pension, Afolabi Ayantayo, emphasised the importance of education in shaping the future of young people and that it is the foundation on which potentials are unlocked.

      He implored parents to make sure their wards get tertiary education as the government has provided free junior and secondary school education.

    “ The facilities are there by government. We have the Primary School, we have the secondary school that are free. So what else do you need other than for parents to ensure that their wards get the necessary education they are able to get,” he noted.

      Also, Tutor General of Education District 1, Bashir Adeoye stressed that the initiative “By enhancing our educational infrastructure, we are empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators who will drive progress and prosperity in our state,” Sanwo-Olu said.

  • Lagos: Towards cleaner, sustainable future

    Lagos: Towards cleaner, sustainable future

    By Babajide Fadoju

    The recent wave of criticisms targeting Lagos State’s environmental efforts is not only misleading but dismissive of the substantial work being done to transform the city. It is one thing to critique; it is another to acknowledge real progress.

    A recent statement from Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour portrays Lagos as an environmental disaster, suggesting that the state has failed in waste management, sanitation, and urban cleanliness.

    However, such a narrative is both inaccurate and ignores the verifiable, strategic reforms implemented under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, particularly through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources led by Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab.

    Lagos generates over 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, the highest of any city in West Africa. Managing such an immense volume of waste requires more than ad hoc suggestions; it demands structured policies and consistent enforcement. Unlike those who claim the solution is as simple as sweeping the streets, the government has implemented a comprehensive waste management strategy.

    LAWMA ensures daily waste collection across all 57 local council development areas, while tricycle compactors have been deployed to service hard-to-reach areas. Recognizing the need for long-term solutions, the government is transitioning from landfill dependency to a structured recycling and waste-to-energy system.

    In a bold step towards modernizing waste disposal, the government has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to decommission the Olusosun and Akesan landfills.

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    These closures are pivotal to mitigating environmental hazards and promoting sustainable urban living. In addition, a waste-to-energy power plant in Epe is being developed to process 2,500 tonnes of waste daily, generating 80 megawatts of electricity, further revolutionizing the state’s waste disposal system.

    Beyond this, partnerships with international firms such as Jospong Group, Lafarge, and Harvest Waste are ensuring improved recycling, plastic-to-fuel conversion, and electronic waste management.

    These are concrete steps towards a cleaner Lagos, not empty rhetoric.

    Public sanitation is another area where significant progress has been made. Over 1,700 public toilets have been established across transport hubs and informal settlements, complemented by Modular Septage Pre-Treatment Plants (MSPP) to ensure proper faecal sludge treatment.

    The Lagos Wastewater Management Office monitors more than 300 private wastewater treatment plants, ensuring they adhere to sanitation regulations. The state’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policy underscores a structured approach to sanitation management, ensuring financial and environmental sustainability.

    Moreover, existing public facilities are undergoing extensive refurbishments, reflecting a holistic approach to improving hygiene standards across Lagos.

    Lagos’ waterways, previously clogged with refuse, are now being systematically cleaned.

    The Lagos Marine Waste Operations remove tons of waste from canals and lagoons daily using waste-collection boats and river booms to intercept debris before it reaches the ocean. Meanwhile, urban greening efforts have resulted in over 54,000 new trees being planted across the city, with an additional 50,000 trees planned within the next two years.

    The commitment to afforestation was recently reinforced with the planting of 157 trees in Dolphin Estate, ensuring a greener, more environmentally resilient Lagos.

    Beyond waste management and sanitation, the government is also making significant strides in infrastructure.

    Lagos has embarked on a mission to increase its daily potable water supply to 100 million gallons by 2027, with major revamps of Adiyan and Ishashi waterworks underway. Agreements with WaterAid will restore water supply in underserved communities, underscoring the administration’s commitment to long-term infrastructure development. Additionally, the rehabilitation of the Akilo Micro Waterworks in Ifako-Ijaiye is poised to restore potable water supply to thousands of households, further cementing Lagos’ dedication to sustainable water resource management.

    Housing is also a key component of environmental sustainability. Addressing the housing deficit remains a cornerstone of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s agenda. The Lagos Home Ownership Mortgage Scheme (LagosHOMS) has already delivered over 20,000 affordable housing units, with 704 additional units under construction in Ikorodu. In December 2024, the administration signed a MoU for the construction of 704 two-bedroom apartments in Odo Nla, Ikorodu.

    These efforts not only provide shelter but also promote proper waste management within planned communities, reducing environmental degradation associated with informal settlements.

    While the government leads with action, citizens must also take responsibility. It is easy to critique LAWMA, LASEPA, and EFAG from the side-lines, but the reality is that adherence to environmental laws determines the success of these efforts. Market traders must stop dumping refuse into drainage systems, businesses and residents must subscribe to waste collection services instead of engaging in illegal disposal, and communities must support the ban on styrofoam and single-use plastics. Without collective action, the best-laid plans of the government will not achieve their full impact.

    Empty Criticism vs. Measurable Impact

    It is easy to list problems. However, the real task lies in addressing them with strategic, long-term solutions rather than sensationalism. The Lagos State Government is implementing policies that require time and collective responsibility to achieve lasting impact. No city of Lagos’ magnitude transforms overnight, but the progress is undeniable.

    Lagos is not stagnant. Lagos is working. All may be fair in politics but not all is fair in leadership. This is about the people, not scoring some cheap political points. Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab and his team remain committed to making Lagos cleaner, healthier, and more liveable. Constructive engagement—not alarmist rhetoric—is what Lagos needs to move forward. Constructive engagement and collective responsibility from all stakeholders are essential to actualize these objectives and ensure enduring progress.

    •Fadoju writes from Ikeja, Lagos.

  • Lagos to install 3,000 e-Police, speed limit cameras to enforce traffic laws

    Lagos to install 3,000 e-Police, speed limit cameras to enforce traffic laws

    By Ntakobong Otongaran

    The Lagos State government has announced plans to install 3,000 electronic police (e-police) and speed limit cameras across the state to enhance traffic law enforcement and curb violations.

    Director, Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), Akin-George Fashola, made this known yesterday on ‘Lagos Transport Trends and Perspectives’, a programme sponsored by the Ministry of Transportation on radio.

    Already, Fashola, said, the cameras had been installed at strategic locations, including Alapere-Ogudu Road—with limits set at 80 km/h inbound Alausa and 60 km/h inbound Iyana Oworo—and Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, where the speed limit is 60 km/h.

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    He further said e-police cameras, designed to monitor red-light running and other traffic violations, have been installed at Allen Junction and Nurudeen Olowopopo Road in Ikeja.

    He urged motorists to adhere to traffic regulations and note warning signs placed at enforcement points.

    “We have installed speed limit cameras and e-police cameras at key locations, and we are expanding this initiative across Lagos to ensure compliance with traffic regulations,” Fashola added.

  • Bill to establish varsity of science, technology in Lagos scales second reading

    Bill to establish varsity of science, technology in Lagos scales second reading

    A Bill which seeks to establish a Federal University of Science and Technology, in Epe, Lagos State, scaled second reading in Senate on Tuesday.

    The bill was sponsored by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and seconded by the Deputy Senate Leader Oyelola Ashiru.

    Bamidele in his lead debate, underscored the significance of establishing the new university, which according to him, was designed to produce highly skilled graduates to drive the country’s innovation and economic growth. 

    Bamidele, who represents Ekiti Central, said when established, the university would provide top-notch education in various fields of science and technology that would drive the country’s digital economy.

    In specific terms, according to him, the university will offer a wide range of undergraduate programmes in fields such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, National Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics among others

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    He further explained that the proposed university “has a mission of producing highly skilled graduates who will drive innovation and economic growth in Nigeria.

    “This is the fundamental justification for the establishment of this specialised institution of higher learning, Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State.

    “For Nigeria to become one of the world’s leading economies as currently being pursued by this administration, we must be ready to adjust and position our educational institutions so that their products are geared for the technological challenges inherent in such projections.

    “The proposed University of Science and Technology is a tertiary institution dedicated to provide top-notch education in various fields of science and technology.”

    Buttressing Bamidele’s justification for the establishment of the university, Ashiru noted that Epe symbolised new Lagos, gradually emerging the country’s fast-growing hub of economic and industrial complex.

    According to the deputy senate leader, Epe is where the new development is taking place. It is in proximity to Ibeju-Lekki, the hub of industrial activities, creative economy and real estate development.

    With the rising profile of the host community, Ashiru urged the upper chamber to unanimously approve the creation of the university for the advancement of the community and Nigeria as a whole.

    Consequently, the Senate passed the bill for second reading and referred it to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Tetfund to report back to plenary within four weeks.

  • Lagos restates commitment to clean, livable city

    Lagos restates commitment to clean, livable city

    The Lagos State Government has rejected viral claims that the state is “smelling,” asserting that Lagos is undergoing a transformative environmental evolution.

    In a statement, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasised the government’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting ongoing efforts to implement innovative policies that strengthen waste management, enhance sanitation, and reinforce urban resilience.

    The commissioner affirmed that Lagos is not deteriorating but evolving into a megacity with modern waste management systems.

    “Lagos is not ‘smelling’; it is evolving toward sustainable waste processing, modernized landfill management, cleaner waterways, and structured sanitation systems. The present administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains steadfast in its commitment to building a cleaner, more sustainable city through strategic environmental initiatives,” he said. 

    He stressed that addressing waste and sanitation challenges in a rapidly growing megacity requires structured solutions rather than sensational claims.

    Wahab highlighted that the government has implemented various measures, including the installation of over 50 air quality monitors to track emissions from industrial, transport, and household sources.

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    According to him, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has expanded waste collection services to hard-to-reach communities, noting it is in collaboration with Ibeju Lekki Local Government, and tricycle compactors have been introduced for waste collection on a pay-as-you-go model in areas with non-motorable roads.

    He revealed that this initiative will be scaled up with the deployment of 500 tricycle compactors later this year.

    He stated that within 18 months, the state will close the Olusosun and Solous 3 landfills, replacing them with modern Transfer Loading Stations where waste will be sorted, compacted, and redirected to recycling facilities.

    Wahab also noted that Lagos is advancing its Waste-to-Energy project in Epe, which will process 2,500 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily and generate 60–80 megawatts of electricity for the power grid.

    He reiterated that the administration has also taken steps to reduce plastic pollution by banning styrofoam food packs and phasing out single-use plastics, and the government is promoting sustainable alternatives and enforcing extended producer responsibility among manufacturers.

    He disclosed that multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with international partners to support waste-to-resource initiatives.

    Wahab reaffirmed that with these initiatives, the Lagos State Government remains unwavering in its resolve to maintain environmental sustainability and ensure a livable, evolving megacity.

  • Lagos urges Umrah pilgrims to obey Saudi laws

    Lagos urges Umrah pilgrims to obey Saudi laws

    The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has urged Umrah (Lesser hajj) to adhere strictly to regulations of the officials of the board.

    At a pre-departure briefing, Secretary of the board, Saheed Onipede, enjoined the pilgrims to stick with the instructions of the board.

    According to him, the board has made a good arrangement for them to enjoy their stay in the Holy Land.

    “The board has a very superb welfare package for them. They will stay close to the Haram and enjoy local meals. We have scholars who will guide them on the Umrah activities,” he said.

    He said over 80 pilgrims are going with the board for the lesser hajj

    Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Home Affairs, Teslim Olusi, described Umrah as a way seeking pleasure of Allah.

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    He urged pilgrims to seize the opportunity to seek Allah’s blessings during Ramadan. “They should make good use of this opportunity to pray to Allah and also use it as a medium to seek Allah’s face,” Olusi said.

    He also stressed the importance of respecting Saudi Arabian regulations and heeding the guidance of tour operators.

    A guest speaker, Sheikh Mahmud Ajagbemokeferi, highlighted the core tenets of Umrah, stressing its capacity to foster a deeper connection with Allah.

    Ajagbemokeferi urged pilgrims to focus on spiritual enrichment rather than mere ritual.