The Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has fixed the sum of Two Million, Six Hundred thousand Naira (N2,600,000) as an initial deposit for 2023 holy pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
A statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, on Saturday, hinted that the Chairman of the Board, Prof. Sayed Malik made this known at the Hajj Camp, Olodo Ibadan.
The Chairman specifically stated that the amount is fixed pending the announcement of the actual fare by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).
The statement stressed further that those that the Board’s promise to the One Hundred and Fifty (150) intending pilgrims who could not perform last year exercise due to the limited seats allocated to the State, would be given priority.
He enjoined all intending pilgrims with the State Pilgrim Welfare’s Board for this year exercise to start paying the stated amount into any of the designated Bank Accounts of the Board.
While informing the Members of the Board about the critical issues and other important matters relating to the 2023 Hajj Operation discussed during the first Pre-Hajj visit to Saudi Arabia, Prof. Malik disclosed that NAHCON has allocated One Thousand, Four Hundred and Forty-One (1441) seats to Oyo State for this year’s Hajj exercise .
It would be recalled that NAHCON along with States’ Chairmen and Secretaries of Muslim Pilgrim’s Welfare Board across the Nation recently arrived from Makkah where they were embarked on Pre-Hajj discussion with the Saudi Authority.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has allocated the number of hajj seats that will go to states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for the 2023 hajj.
In a statement by NAHCON’s assistant director, information and publications, Mousa Ubandawaki, he disclosed that Kaduna would get the highest number, with 5,982 seats, followed by Kano State, with 5,902 seats and Sokoto, with 5,504.
Others are Niger State with 5,165 seats; Katsina 4,913; Kebbi 4871, Kwara 3,219, Lagos 3,576, FCT, 3,520, Gombe 2,301, Imo 30, Jigawa. 1,525, Plateau 1,984, Rivers 50 and Taraba 1,590.
The statement further indicates that Abia State is to receive 53 seats with Adamawa getting 2,669; Anambra is getting 39, while Bauchi gets 3,132. Bayelsa has 35; Benue 236; Borno 2,735, Cross Rivers 66, Delta 74, Nasarawa 1,567; Ogun 1,139; Ondo 436; Osun 1,054; Oyo 1,441; Yobe 1,968; Ebonyi 117; Edo, 274; Ekiti, 197 and Enugu 40.
The statement added that the allocation for Kogi State would be released after the conclusion of its ongoing review of activities, while allocation of Akwa Ibom State was suspended due to non-renewal of its operating license.
According to the statement, all the states are expected to remit 50 per cent of the 2022 seat allocations to the commission before the February 10 deadline. Inability of any state to comply with the deadline date will lead to reduction in allocation. ,It will be recalled that Saudi Arabia had allocated 95,000 hajj slots to Nigeria for the 2023 annual spiritual journey.
This doubled the amount given to the country in 2022, which made some intending pilgrims miss the exercise.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the promotion of religious freedom, harmony and tolerance across the state.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, Governor Makinde congratulated female Muslims across Oyo State on this year’s celebration of hijab day.
He said his administration would not discriminate against any religion in the state.
Gov Makinde assured that he will continue to relate, interface and dialogue with all religious leaders, adding that they have not only been supportive of his administration but also prayerful.
He appealed to religious leaders in Oyo State to continue to educate their followers on religious harmony and tolerance.
The statement also indicated that the special Assistant on Islamic Affairs to the governor, Imam Wale Abdulrushid had held a brief ceremony at the secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan to commemorate the day.
Nigerians need to elect leaders that are Godly and not religious bigots for good governance, unity and development of the country.
This was the submission of the Founder and Spiritual leader of Shafaudeen in Islam Worldwide, Professor Sabit Olagoke during the activities marking the 40th Annual Shafaudeen International Convention ‘Ishrat 2023’ Theme: Shaping the Future of Nation, the Future is Now held at its International Headquarters, Wakajaye, Iwo Road, Ibadan.
According to Professor Olagoke, the new leaders must be able to see to restructuring and 1999 Constitution amendment to have fiscal Federalism in place that will allow Regions, States, Local government to control resources for their development through right placement of items in the exclusive li9st and considered concurrent list.
“The only solution to have a breakthrough is to employ merit and due process in promoting values and running the affairs of the Nation objectively without discrimination based on the need to promote inclusive Society for a better and progressive Nigeria free of violence, banditry and, militancy, kidnapping, terrorism and sharp practices (corruption and institutional indiscipline), the hallmark of insecurity that destroy human and material resources rather than building it.”
He expressed hope that the INEC Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) Certification process will lend credibility to the 2023 Elections process for free, credible and fair exercise.
“All of us must effectively participate in voting and monitoring to shun vices. Healthy competition by politicians in the spirit of healthy sportsmanship for peace to reign is desired if we truly hold to faith.”
Professor Olagoke charged leaders to unveil implementable policies that will promote employment, and people’s capacity building with state-of-the-art equipment to facilitate basic amenities for people’s welfare and wellness.
”Emerging Research and Development for the emancipation of humanity and the environment must therefore preoccupy the leadership role for the dynamics of the country. Many facilities being enjoyed today across the world are the products of many investors and researchers turning around the fortune of the world to be more habitable for humanity with the trend of development till date”
He challenged Muslims to follow the example of Islamic legends in history not to lag behind in the present global competitive market and global best practices driven by Quality and Standard in evaluation.
“The world craze for materialism through illegal means has led to caustic civilization making us to witness emerging crisis of diseases”
The Islamic leader posited that the impending doom of the evening times is making everybody to be vulnerable hence the need for leaders to concentrate on promoting research and development in their educational institutions that must be functional and adequately driven by the state-of-the-art facilities.
“Researchers are emerging in the various fields of human endeavours. What of COVID-19 antidote of drugs rejected from Africa continent for lack of scientific backing? Stop underfunding but promote functional education that will enhance initiative development, altruistic life for others benefits and peaceful co-existence without discrimination for enhanced security and unity of the multi-religious country”
The programme also featured recognition and elevation of some founding members of the organization who have sacrificed for its existence and Walimat for graduands who distinguished themselves in quranic memorisation and recitation conducted by the chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abdulganiyy Abubakar Agbotomokekere
Religious leaders have called on Nigerians to work towards achieving free and fair elections coming up in February and March, 2023.
The religious leaders made this known in Ibadan at an interfaith forum for peaceful elections tagged “Vote Not Fight”, organised by Non governmental organizations.
The programme was aimed at campaigning for peace before, during and after the elections in the country.
One of the clerics, Alhaji Abdulfatai Owonikewu, who said irrespective of anyone’s belief, working in unity should be the watchword, urged residents of the country to shun any form of violence and practice peace at all cost, even after the elections.
“We are under one country, therefore, we are also one”
Also, Pastor Ehiozogie Solomon, implored Nigerians to contribute their quota to the development of the country, and shun religious conflicts and other social vices, during and after the elections.
Pastor Solomon and Alhaji Owonikewu equally called on other religious leaders to preach the importance of peaceful elections.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, has commenced the screening of accommodation and catering service applicants for the 2023 Hajj.
The screening is being conducted by a Committee headed by Dr Bala Muhammed of the Department of Mass Communication, Bayero University, Kano, who represents the Jammat Nasirl Islam (JN I) on the board of the commission.
Other members of the committee include three (3) representatives of the Forum of State Chairmen/Secretaries (Lagos, FCT and Plateau states) and representatives of the Association of Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON).
Over hundred (100) companies submitted applications for the provision of accommodation and catering services in Makkah and Madinah.
Before a company can be cleared, it must meet the criteria of having a share capital of not less than SR 5 Million( Five Million Saudi Riyals) for Accommodation and SR2 million ( Two Million Saudi Riyals) for catering service.
In addition, a successful company must show evidence or proof of ownership or a Lease Agreement and must also have a working agreement or partnership with a Nigerian entity, while a cognitive experience of 5 years and most importantly with Nigeria is an added advantage.
The breakdown of the list of Applicants showed that 38 companies applied for the Makkah accommodation, while 16 applied for the Madina accommodation.
77 companies applied for feeding of pilgrims in Makkah and 24 companies bidding for Madina pilgrims.
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria NAHCON, the 36 State pilgrims welfare boards agencies commissions and the Tour operators are to pick from the list of successful companies for the provision of accommodation and catering services during the 2023 Hajj.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says his administration will continue to support the Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims Board in its bid to have hitch-free Hajj exercises in the state.
The governor, while receiving the 2022 Hajj reports from the chairman of the Muslim Pilgrims Board, Professor Sayed Malik, at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, admonished the board to double up its efforts by ensuring that standard was maintained.
He called on the Board to constantly engage the pilgrims, saying that regular and early preparations were quite important and key.
Governor Makinde also pledged to complete the projects abandoned by the previous administration at the Hajj Camp, Olodo, Ibadan.
He said: “We want to say thank you to the Board. We know the challenges you faced before, during and after the pilgrimage. Some of them, as you said, is not peculiar to Oyo State. But what I will say is, for us, we don’t make excuses and we don’t say that because something is happening in another state, it should happen here. No. We are proactive and we try to see our things through.
“So, I will advise the board members to double up their efforts to ensure that the standard is maintained and that we start early. If I take the issue of the Basic Travel Allowance as an example, it is something that we should have handled a lot better if those who are supposed to be on top of the situation are actually there.
Earlier, the state chairman of the Pilgrims’ Welfare Board (Muslim Wing)Professor Malik, who recounted various challenges encountered before, during and after the 2022 Hajj operation, appreciated Governor Makinde for his moral and financial support.
Professor Malik also revealed that the governor had approved the funds for the completion of the abandoned projects at the Hajj Camp, Olodo, which were neglected by the previous administration in 2015.
He equally announced that the board has refunded the sum of Sixty-Two Thousand, Five Hundred Fifty-Six Naira, Sixty-One Kobo, (N62, 556. 61k) to each of the pilgrim that performed the 2022 Hajj in the state, adding that the total amount refunded to all pilgrims was Thirty-Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Five Naira and Sixty-Six Kobo (N37, 909,305.66).
The best way to purify one’s soul is to avoid committing sins and engage in total repentance to Allah.
This was the submission of an Islamic Scholar, Dr. Salahudeen Munirudeen who was a guest lecturer at the 112th Islamic Vacation Course IVC organised by Muslim Students Society of Nigeria, MSSN, B-zone held at kilometers 27, Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.
He listed many reasons people committed sins which include poverty, ignorance, lack of knowledge and failure to believe in the existence of Allah and advised Muslims to seek for true Islamic knowledge.
In a remarks, the chairman on the occasion, who is also the APC Senatorial candidate for Oyo Central, Dr Yunus Akintunde enjoined Muslims to collect their PVCs and participate fully in the coming elections.
He said political power was required to fix some of the challenges confronting the society.
Also, former Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. Dimeji Bankole urged Muslim youths to obey their parents and contribute to development of the country.
Earlier, the Ameer MSSN B-zone, Mallam Qazeem Adedeji called on all well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on some overzealous individuals to stop their incessant harassment of Muslim children on the use of hijab in schools.
He revealed that the society had assisted many members and other Muslims with millions of Naira under its education and social intervention schemes.
Over 9,000 Muslim Students from the South West attended the 112th vacation course.
Churches in Ibadan Metropolis conducted the Christmas service with excitement to praise God for witnessing another yuletide season.
Our correspondent, Dayo Adu, reports that the worshippers were in an exciting mood in some of the churches visited as they sang hymns and songs of praises to God in reflection of the Christmas season.
In a sermon at The Cathedral of St. James the Great, Oke Bola, The bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, The Most Rev’d Joseph Akinfenwa charged Nigerian leaders and the citizens to imbibe the virtue of love, purity, and peace exemplified by Jesus Christ to achieve national cohesion
On his part, the priest in charge of Wonderland Baptist Church, Orogun, Rev. Peter Oláníyì, enjoined Nigerians to anticipate success in the conduct of the 2023 general elections, adding that God’s will would prevail
The Zonal Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Glorious Paris Oyo province one, Abiola Adio who advised the people to shun the act of greed noted that government could win public trust when benefits meant for all were not embezzled by few.
Some of the worshippers, who spoke with Radio Nigeria, expressed joy at witnessing another Christmas day with major concerns for the peaceful conduct of the 2023 general elections.
The respondents called on the government to cushion the effect of inflation so as to make the yuletide season worthwhile.
The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Right Honorable Timothy Owoeye wants Nigerians to take advantage of the celebration of the birth of Jesus to pray for peace and the sustainability of Nigeria.
Right Honorable Owoeye in a Christmas message by his Media Aide, Mr. Kunle Alabi stressed the need for Christians to reflect and re-dedicate themselves to the teachings of Christ, which were anchored on sacrifice, love, peace and truth.
The Speaker enjoined Nigerians to always strive to be role models as Christ who lived and died propagating the message of love, peace and true co-existence among mankind.
He noted that at this point of Nigeria, everyone should seek God’s intervention in alleviating the present economic hardship.
The Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Mr Kayode Odedokun, has urged residents of the state and Nigeria in general not to despair, but rather begin to look for a silver lining behind the current dark cloud, praying that the balmy days will soon return to the people.
Mr Odedokun, who stated this in a yuletide message to the people also said the present administration both at the State and Federal levels was doing its best to reclaim the glory of the nation and put things in order.
The NOA state Director, therefore, charged all and sundry to look beyond the present travails hunting the country, saying that the storm will be over in a recorded time.
Mr Odedokun adds that “people should join hands with Government at all levels in performing their civic duties as expected of them, keep the new Naira notes in good form to avoid early mutilation, stop spraying in parties, and avoid other abuses of the new notes.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated Christians in Oyo State and across the country on witnessing another Christmas.
The governor, who stated that Christmas presents a golden opportunity to celebrate Christ, his humble beginning and the lessons his life taught, charged Christians to emulate Jesus Christ in all ways.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor also charged residents of the state to be conscious security-wise during the Yuletide and to say something whenever they noticed something untoward or unusual.
Governor Makinde who maintained that criminalities have reduced drastically in Oyo State as a result of the efforts of his government through its investments on security as well as the effectiveness of the security agencies, said residents have a huge role to play in upping the ante.
He said: “I celebrate with all residents of Oyo State and all Nigerians on witnessing the 2022 Christmas festivity.
“It is another opportunity to celebrate Jesus Christ and the lessons his life taught humanity; lessons of humility, selflessness, godliness and service.
“I encourage everyone to use the opportunity of the occasion to remember the life of Christ and emulate him.
“I also charge our people to be alert and sensitive during the Yuletide, especially with regards to security.
“While appreciating residents of the state for the roles they have played towards a more secured Oyo State, I encourage them to be alert at this period and as I always say, when they see something, they should say something.
“Again, I congratulate everyone and wish them a Merry Christmas.”
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has said that his administration would continue to do everything necessary to improve the standard of education in the state.
He stated this while speaking at the 2022 Christmas Carol Service with the theme “Joy to the World,” held at the Remembrance Arcade, Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, adding that his administration would continue to commit resources to improve the education sector.
While stating that the pace of development in other sectors would also not be reduced, Governor Makinde said his administration had laid the foundation to ensure the continuous improvement of the human development index of the state.
The governor also used the occasion to announce that the state government would pay the 13th month’s salary to workers in the state on or before 31 December as it has been doing since the inception of the administration in 2019.
Speaking on some of the strides recorded by the administration, especially in the education sector, Governor Makinde said that with the upgrade of the Emmanuel Alayande College of Education to a University of Education, the state now has a state-owned conventional university and two specialised universities
The governor also explained that with the success already recorded by the administration within the scope of the Omituntun 1.0, the State Government would explore tourism and ethical mining as an avenue to further expand the economy of the state if he is re-elected in 2023.
He said: “We started with omituntun 1.0 where we listed four pillars in the document I presented in 2018 – Roadmap for Accelerated Development of Oyo State. We focused on Education, Health, Expansion of the economy and Security and we have achieved a lot.
“Right now, we have a state-owned conventional university and two specialised universities with a campus in Iseyin. Now, we have Emmanuel Alayande University of Education in Oyo and the first Technical University in Ibadan. Some have said we won’t be able to fund this new project but I can tell you that we have the capacity. Since LAUTECH became solely owned by Oyo State, we have been funding it.
“We have paid the backlog of salaries owed by the past administration. We have paid around 50 per cent of our commitment to Osun State already. So, we will continue to commit our resources to the education sector because that is where the future lies for us.
“For the next 40 years, we have laid the foundation to produce human resources requirements for Oyo State.
“We have the same focus for Omituntun 2.0 with a few additions. The expansion of our economy will not only be through agribusiness but tourism and solid mineral development.
Earlier, the general overseer of the Hour of Mercy Prayer Ministry, Prophet Moses Muyideen Kasali, reminded the indigenes of Oyo State to hold on to hope, as according to him, the birth of Christ symbolises hope.
He enjoined everyone to use the season to remember the needy in their communities because those who have should be sources of hope for the needy.
The first, second and third lessons of the event were read by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; a Judge of the Oyo State High Court, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; and the Chairman, CPFN, Oyo State, Pastor Benjamin Akanmu, respectively.
Special prayers were held for the state, the first family, the State House of Assembly, civil servants and for increased prosperity for the state and Nigeria, by the Prelate Emeritus, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr Sunday Ola Makinde; Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa; Bishop Daniel Oluwajimade; Prophet Ojo Olowere; Bishop T.V. Adelakun and Bishop Francis Wale Oke.
The highlight of the event included songs, hymn renditions, and fireworks.
In a related development, the wife of the governor, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde has called on parents to give priority to child training for the overall benefit of society.
Mrs Makinde stated this at a Christmas party organized for the children in the state.
She reiterated that when parents played their role of imbibing virtues into the hearts of the younger generations, it would help build a society free of corrupt practices.
Mrs Makinde, who called on the children to use the holiday period to relax after rigorous academic activities, called on the parents not to be careless in watching over them.
Some of the children, who enjoyed themselves on bouncy castles and roller coasters, said the Christmas party was fun filled for them, appreciating the wife of the governor for the gifts.
The highlight of the programme was visiting the Father Christmas grotto to receive gifts.
Ogun State Government through the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced the commencement of registration, processing, and documentation for 2023 Hajj exercise, in line with the directive of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, (NAHCON).
A release signed by the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Salau Dauda stated that Intending Pilgrims are required to visit the Board to collect tellers and pay the initial Hajj deposit of #2, 000, 000 in not more than three instalments.
The release urged those who wish to roll-over their initial Hajj deposit to come for proper documentation at Block B, Secretariat Complex, Oke- Mosan, Abeokuta.
Prospective Pilgrims are also mandated to have valid International Passport to guarantee their journey to the Holy Land.
Christians have been urged to give issues of the kingdom of God priority at all times and ensure they make soul-winning their lifestyle.
The Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, the Most Reverend Dr Joseph Akinfenwa stated this at the Advent Carol of Nine Lessons and Songs held at All Souls Church, Bodija Ibadan.
While emphasising that the present world was full of evil and absurdities and would soon come to an end, the Most Reverend Akinfenwa challenged Christians to be watchful and prayerful while awaiting the Lord’s return.
The Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese harped on the need to utilise the Advent season which was meant for penance to reflect on the threats and dangers being experienced in the world and the place of Christians in all these.
“Advent is an age-long tradition of rejoicing. Advent Sunday is a very significant Sunday in the Christian Calendar and in the Church of God. Advent connotes the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, so we celebrate and look forward to that coming again as a Judge and not as a babe in Bethlehem”.
Advent which is synonymous with the Anglican Church signifies the beginning of the new Church Year and the season lasts for between four and six weeks.
On the 2023 elections, The Most Reverend Akinfenwa enjoined politicians to deal truthfully and with the fear of God in order to have a better society.
“Our message to the nation is that everyone should be honest with God. If you’re honest with God, It will be simple for them to be honest with man. Let our leaders and politicians be honest, let them say the truth, and let them stop deceiving us because there is a lot of deceit. We don’t have manifestos again, It’s all slogans to deceive the masses”
The service which was broadcast live on Premier FM 93.5 featured the singing of hymns, songs and anthems by the choir, clergy and women’s organizations in the Diocese.
Everyone present at the service was given a candle to light which symbolises the essence of Jesus Christ as the light of the world.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has called on Christians to be steadfast in praying for the country’s unity and the peaceful and successful conduct of the 2023 general elections.
Governor Abiodun who made the call at the Annual Convention of the Foursquare Church held at Ajebo also stressed the need for Nigerians to play their part in politics by exercising their franchise during the forthcoming 2023 general elections.
The governor who also said with peace and unity, numerous challenges confronting the nation were surmountable, reiterated that his administration would continue to promote inter-religious tolerance.
In a sermon entitled “Encounter with the Supernatural”, the General Overseer of the Church, the Reverend Samuel Aboyeji said many Christians go through turbulent times because they fail to speak positive things that could sustain and retain divine encounters in their lives.
Reverend Aboyeji also said that present challenges confronting the nation should be handed over to God for divine encounter.
The stage is set as people from every tongue, every tribe, every land and every nation will be converging on Ile-Ife, Osun State to raise a sound in an all-symbolic meeting, Finest Worship 2022.
Finest Worship is an annual festival of worship where millions of people across the globe gather in one night to offer unto God heartfelt praise through songs, dance and exhortation accompanied by miracles, signs and wonders.
The all-night worship, with the theme; God of all Grace, holds on Friday, November 18, 2022 at God’s Love Tabernacle Worship Arena, Ile-Ife, Osun State by 10 pm WAT, 3 pm CST.
You can also watch via Facebook; GLT church and YouTube; GLT church.
As the 2023 general elections draw near, Nigeria needs a core of change agents who are fully committed to salvage the country from its mirage of challenges.
This was the submission of a Public Administrator and Political Scientist, Professor Tunji Olaopa at a conference organized by Waymaker International Ministry, held at Orita-Mefa Baptist Church, Total Garden, Ibadan.
Speaking on the topic “Becoming a more Impactful Leader for Organizational Sustainability“, Professor Olaopa said at a time when things appears to be falling apart in the country, leaders who would think less of themselves and think Nigeria were needed to assume critical positions.
In a lecture entitled “Productive Leadership for Organizational Growth“, the immediate past President, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Reverend Olasupo Ayokunle argued that successive leaders in the country since independence, had failed to move Nigeria to a productive nation.
Reverend Ayokunle maintained that until Nigeria ceased to be a consuming economy, the country would not witness the desired prosperity.
Similarly, while speaking on “Understanding the Secrets of Productive Leadership“, General Overseer, Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Reverend Sam Aboyeji believed that the misconception about leadership was the bane of Nigeria’s numerous challenges.
Reverend Aboyeji added that every leader and potential leader who desires to make impact must pay attention to four critical elements which are vision, strategy, passion and integrity.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated the Muslim faithful on the occasion of this year’s El-Maolud Nabiyy, marking the birthday of Holy Prophet Muhammed.
The governor urged the Muslim faithful to continue to emulate the Holy Prophet by living in peace with their neighbours.
He also urged the Muslim Ummah to continue to pray for the progress of Oyo State and for peace and unity in Nigeria, ahead of the 2023 general election.
The governor stated this in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Taiwo Adisa and made available to Newsmen in Ibadan.
He charged Muslims to imbibe the virtues of humility, kindness and forgiveness as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon Him) during his lifetime.
He said: “As Muslims celebrate the 2022 Maolud Nabiyy, I implore all Muslims in Oyo State and Nigeria to continue to follow the lessons inherent in the birth and life of Prophet Muhammed (SAW).
“I admonish Muslims to emulate the humility, good neighbourliness, understanding and love exemplified by the life of Prophet Muhammed (SAW).
“The qualities of the Prophet, which include compassion, fairness, justice, honesty, self-discipline, tolerance, hard work, perseverance and devotion in all our dealings, among others, should continue to be the compass for our lives.
“I equally urge Muslims to be more committed to the principle of discipline, obedience and pure love for Allah and our fellow humans.
“They should apply all these qualities and principles in their relationship with fellow human beings, irrespective of ethnic and religious differences.
“I wish all Muslims a happy Maolud Nabiyy, as I pray that the occasion “blesses our hearts, our homes and society with happiness, love, harmony.”
Iyabo Adebisi
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Nigerians should continue to see beyond religious differences to foster peace and promote development.
Director, National Orientation Agency, NOA, Oyo State, Mr Kayode Odedokun stated this in Ibadan as Muslims mark Eid El- Maolud.
Mr Kayode Odedokun, who used the occasion to rejoice with the Muslims, also charged them not to allow religious sentiments to serve as a cog in the wheels of the nation’s progress, especially now that the 2023 elections are approaching.
The State Director said Nigerians irrespective of religious leaning, should see nation-building as a collective responsibility as poverty, squalor, insecurity, banditry and other ills bedevilling the Nation know no creed.
Mr Odedokun called on the Muslims to reflect on the teachings of the holy prophet and live every day by the Sunnah of tolerance and togetherness to move the country forward.
Mr Kayode Odedokun prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) would continue to foster unity in the country.
Mosope Kehinde
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Only leaders with balanced knowledge, intelligence, courage and clear disposition can deliver the much-desired dividends of good governance to Nigerians.
The immediate past Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC in Oyo State, Dr Mutiu Agboke gave the advice while delivering a lecture titled “Attaining Our Dream Nationhood: Nurturing the Youth for Decent Leadership” on the occasion of the annual state lecture commemorating Nigeria’s 62nd independence anniversary by The Muslim Congress, TMC Oyo State in Ibadan.
Dr Agboke, who pointed out that there was a need for Nigerians to know the true character of future leaders before attaining leadership positions, stressed that Nigerian youth, especially Muslims must possess good leadership qualities to take their rightful positions in governance.
While affirming that accepting Nigeria’s destiny as a multi-religious state with over 200 ethnic groupings was important for peaceful co-existence and a better nation, the former INEC REC in Oyo state urged Nigerians to desist from ethnic segregation and religious discrimination.
He tasked the youths to provide leadership in voter education, saying there would be no room for result manipulation or rigging during the coming 2023 general elections.
Dr Agboke called on well-meaning Nigerians and politicians to be more organized and to reduce the suffering of the masses.
In another lecture on the topic “Engendering Morality and the Sanctity of Life: The Islamic Model, the Grand Mufti, Conference of Islamic Organisations, OIC, Lagos state, Sheikh Dhikrullahi Shaafi’ maintained that nepotism is anti-Islam and called for unity of purpose among Muslims and other Nigerians to foster national development.
Sheikh Shaafi’ advised youths against cybercrime and other criminal activities, noting that adherence to Islamic tenets was a panacea to value restoration and challenges facing Nigeria.
The Islamic scholar, who enjoined parents to instil values in their children, advocated a review of the education curriculum for value reorientation and improved welfare packages for teachers.
He also advised Federal Government to find a lasting solution to lingering insecurity and economic hardship.
Earlier, the chairman on the occasion, Dr Munir Durojaye said the event was a good step to addressing challenges facing Nigeria and in fulfilment of Muslims’ responsibility for societal reformation.
In an address, the TMC National Ameer, Alhaji Abdulwasi’ Bangbala read by Oyo State Wali, Alhaji Daud Oladosu said that the annual state lecture was to inculcate good values in youth and purge Nigerians of primordial sentiments and brainstorm for policy direction.
In a goodwill message, the All Progressive Congress, APC senatorial candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Dr Yunus Akintunde hinted that his ambition was to work for upgrading of Federal College of Education (Special) Oyo and the only College of Surveying, Oyo to university.
Dr Akintunde promised to ensure that constituents enjoy the results of purposeful representation in the Red Chamber.
Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Mr. Abdurahman Abduraheem represented by the Permanent Secretary (Inspector General of Education, Oyo state), Mrs Faoziyah Oluokun said the state government reintroduced the teaching of Civic and Religious Studies in schools for value restoration.
Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mr. Kayode Odedokun represented by Deputy Director and Head, Planning Research and Strategy, Mrs Ajolayo Akande commended the TMC for organizing the programme in view of its significance to national development.
The event which had the theme “Restoring Our Pristine National Values” was attended by Oyo state Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal represented by Mr Zakariyyah Kunle-Sanni, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abubakr Agbotomokekere represented by Imam Hassan Onibiyan, religious and traditional rulers as well as Islamic organizations across the state.
Nofiu Busari
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The President, Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, Bishop Wale Oke says Nigerians should shun monetary inducement and vote their conscience in the 2023 general election.
Bishop Oke stated this during a sermon at the Sword of the Spirit Ministries, Ibadan in celebration of the 62nd Independence Anniversary of Nigeria.
The PFN president noted that mortgaging votes by collecting money from politicians might not only be detrimental to the electorate but to the future of Nigerians in general.
He maintained that Nigerians should look beyond tribal and ethnic sentiment and vote for politicians with integrity and great track records, which is only possible through their permanent voter card, PVC.
Bishop Oke, who stressed that Nigeria has a great future ahead despite the myriads of challenges confronting it, urged the press to be alive to its responsibility as the fourth estate of the realm and steer the nation towards greatness.
Jeffrey Ahonmisi
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It was a moment of rapturous praise at Studio One, Radio Nigeria Ibadan as different gospel singers gather to worship God at the 10th annual Praise of Radio Nigeria Christian fellowship.
Setting tone for the day with melodious pieces was Radio Nigeria, Ibadan Choir.
Other choral groups that rendered sonorous songs included Mouth- Piece of his Majesty, Okiki Eledumare, Ode Jesu and Olabisi Up-Jesus.
In an address of welcome, the President FRCN Christian Fellowship Mr Taiwo Sowande said the programme was the 10th annual Praise, and that the corporation had every reason to Praise God for His goodness.
Also speaking, the Zonal Director Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Mrs Bolatito Joseph, represented by the Deputy Director Engineering Services, Mr Gabriel Ajayi said despite all unpleasant situations in Nigeria, staff must always remember to always appreciate God for His protection and provisions
In his exhortation, the General Manager, Gold FM, Pastor Damola Tinubu encouraged members of staff to always set out time to thank God for sparing their lives.
He said it is through praises that God answers prayers.
As the nation grapples with insecurity along with an economic downturn, a cleric says Nigerians should see emerging out of the twin problems as a collective responsibility.
Zonal Pastor, Glorious Parish, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Oyo province 1, College Crescent, Ibadan, Abiola Adio made the remark in an interview with Radio Nigeria.
Pastor Adio explained that though the mounting insecurity and dire economic challenges were worrisome, it was essential that people pray to God for divine assistance for those at the helm of affairs.
Pastor Adio said prayers would go a long way in seeing the nation through the current challenge, as no situation was impossible for God to address
He however, admonished Nigerians to live right as godly conduct pleases God and ensures answer to prayers
Funmilola Obagbayegun
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Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum will be in Ibadan on Sunday, 18th September as the lead speaker at the 11th annual symposium of Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, MSSN, B- Zone.
Professor Zulum will be speaking on the theme of the symposium “The Nation’s Destiny” which holds at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
Professor Afiz Oladosu of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan is the first guest discussant on the topic “Redefining Nigeria’s Destiny through Credible Poll” while another guest discussant and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Muiz Banire’s focus is on “Ethno-religious agitation & imperative of inclusiveness”.
In a statement issued in Ibadan by the Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee of the symposium, Alhaji Ridwan Fasasi, the Chairman of the occasion is the former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the Distinguished Guest of Honour is Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State while the father of the day is Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Alhaji Dawud Akinola.
Other guests include the Royal Father of the day, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Lekan Balogun, the spiritual father is Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Shaikh AbdGaniy Agbotomokekere , while the mother of the day is Iyaloja of Ibadanland, Alhaja Iswat Ameringun.
Mallam Uthman Abubakar, National Amir, MSSN is the special guest of honour, the MSSN B-Zonal Amir, Barrister Qaasim Odedeji is the Chief host while the Amir, MSSN, Oyo State Area Unit, Engr Abdulkabir Al’Yakeen is the host.
According to the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Mallam Shakirullah Adedoja, the annual symposium is aimed at addressing issues of national interest with a view to bringing about a better Nigeria.
The annual symposium which began in Lagos in 2012 with the theme ” Insecurity in Nigeria: Myth, Reality and Panacea” has been held in different States in the Southern part of the country.
Some of the States include Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Edo.
The 10th edition of the programme was held last year at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta with the theme” Saving a Nation on the Precipe “.
The 11th edition holding at the International Conference Centre, the University of Ibadan on the 18th of this month starting from 10 am has a feature of a pre-registration tagged ” Get yourself a seat”.
The registration according to the Chairman, Planning Committee, Alhaji Mushafar Alaran would give the online registered participants the opportunity of getting seat tags and symposium materials earlier while those who will engage in physical registration will have to face the rigour of the exercise at the venue.
The link for the online registration is
bit.ly/mssnsymposium while not less than 2,000 participants have booked their spaces through the pre-symposium registration.
Apart from students, others from all walks of life are expected to participate in the epoch-making symposium while those who might not be available will have the luxury of joining through a virtual platform.
