Religion

Nigeria Needs Citizen-Focused Governance – FOMWAN

By Web News 649

The relevance of governance is measured by its response to issues affecting citizens.

Amirah, Federation of Muslim Women’s Association of Nigeria, FOMWAN, Osun State, Alhaja Sadiat Oladapo made the submission during a courtesy visit to Osun State House of Assembly, OSHA.

Alhaja Oladapo emphasized that Government should focus more on sectors including Health, Education and Human Empowerment for sustainable growth. 

She explained that the purpose of the visit was to celebrate the Speaker of the House who recently marked his 50th Birthday and to pray for Honorables and Staff of the Assembly.

Alhaja Oladapo, who commended the House for their unflinching support for FOMWAN Osun, reiterated the commitment of the religious body to continue to support the Government. 

In an address, the Clerk of the House, Mr Simeon Amusan appreciated the visit of members of Osun Fomwan and urged religious bodies to intensify prayer for the country over the menace of Insecurity.

Mojisola Oladele

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Pastor Kumuyi Arrives Ondo, Visits Governor Akeredolu

By Web News 1314

The General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Christian Ministry, Pastor Williams Kumuyi has arrived in Ondo State for a global crusade.

Pastor Kumuyi, who is also the convener of the global crusade with the theme, “TRIUMPHANT POWER”, was welcomed at the Akure Airport by a crowd of worshippers and proceeded to the Governor’s office where he was received by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu and members of his cabinet.

Speaking during the visit, Governor Akeredolu commended Pastor Kumuyi for his passion for preaching the gospel, saying his visit to the state would usher in good tidings.

Governor Akeredolu also lauded Pastor Kumuyi’s prowess as a former lecturer and accepted the invitation to be at the crusade with some of his cabinet members.

Earlier, Pastor Kumuyi had extolled the virtues of Governor Akeredolu, describing him as courageous and prayed for him to fulfil his promises to the Ondo State people before leaving office.

Pastor Kumuyi before proceeding to Ondo town, the venue of the crusade prayed for the governor, the state and the nation at large.

The crusade is billed to hold at the Ondo Anglican Grammar School, Ondo town from Thursday 25th to 30th at five o’clock in the evening.

Isaac Afolabi

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Don’t lose hope – NBC President Charges Inmates

By Web News 536

The biblical admonition of visiting and feeding those in the prison came to the fore when the Nigerian Baptist Convention, NBC, visited Agodi Correctional Facility, Ibadan to feed all the inmates at the Centre.

The team led by the National President of the NBC, The Reverend Israel Àkànjí felicitated all the inmates and also gave them huge loaves of bread.

Reverend Akanji urged them to see the bread as a reminder of Jesus being the Bread of Life who could forgive them their sins and give them a new beginning.

He assured the inmates of God’s readiness to accept them as his sons and daughters once they depart from their old ways.

The cleric explained further that he chose to spend the day with the inmates to encourage them not to lose hope.

NBC President seized the occasion to call on governments to upgrade the facilities at the correctional centre which was built in 1894.

He, however, assured the inmates that the damaged roof of the chapel at the Centre would be reconstructed in September this year.

Welcoming the team, the Assistant Director at the Agodi Correctional Centre,  Mr Samuel  Ayodele, described the inmates as products of society through their background and peer pressure.

He stressed that people should stop stigmatizing ex-convicts but rather accept them back into society with love.

Mr Ayodele commended the Nigerian Baptist Convention for the initiative and urged other Nigerians to emulate such.

He added that the facility was in need of forty computer systems and a classroom within the premises for the take-off of a school to be managed by the Open University.

Radio Nigeria observed that the centre was well maintained while the inmates displayed some of their handwork including fans, bracelets, and necklaces for the people to buy.

Abisola Oluremi

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Religion

Islam is Against Jungle Justice – Cleric

By Web News 599 Post a comment

A Prominent Islamic scholar, Alhaji Isa Akindele has condemned jungle justice as the act has no basis in Islam.

He stated this at an event in Ibadan.

Alhaji Akindele who decried the idea of either slander or blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad, however, said such was not enough to lead to violence as justice belongs only to Allah and no one should fight for such cause.

He emphasized that Allah has appointed some people as keepers of justice and they should be allowed to do their legitimate duties rather than people taking laws into their hands through jungle justice.

“Jungle justice is Haram in Islam. Nobody should take the law into his hands. Justice belongs to Allah and Allah has appointed some people as keepers of justice and they should not be disturbed .”

Alhaji Akindele called on Nigerian leaders to fear Allah in their dealings as they will account for their stewardship in the hereafter.

The guest lecturer on the occasion who is from the Islamic University of Minnesota, USA, Dr Buniyamin Bello said for Nigeria to be developed, a strong system must be in place.

He said rather than a strong leader, what is needed for the development of the country is a good system as such would serve as checks to enhance good governance.

“In any political dispensation, what Nigerians think of is a strong leader, whereas, we don’t need a strong leader but a strong system. When you have a strong system, whoever is a leader, the system will take care of him. If he is a good leader, the system will support him and if he’s a bad leader, the system will flush him out.

Dr Bello also condemned the ways the country continues to suffer in the hands of some Nigerians who have allowed regional, tribal and religious sentiments to overshadow their senses of judgment.

“A northerner will think about his tribe first before thinking of Nigeria, the same is applicable to the south. All decisions based on regions, ethnics religious will not breed any good to Nigeria”.

Dr Bello added that the life and times of Prophet Muhammad were full of lessons and if followed would enhance socio-economic development of any nation.

Ridwan Fasasi

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Adeleke Felicitates Adherents on World Isese Day

By Web News 714

The Osun State Governor-Elect, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated traditional religion worshippers in the state and beyond on the occasion of this year’s Isese Day celebration, pledging the incoming administration’s commitment to religious harmony in the state.

In a congratulatory statement, Senator Adeleke said the annual festival is a celebration of the faiths in traditional religion and reminds us that the diverse faiths and religion, and tradition in Osun enriches us all.

“I honour the rich tradition that defines this celebration, and congratulates every adherent, particularly in Osun state, on this auspicious occasion,” he said in a statement, adding that “As the next Governor of Osun State, I will be committed to building an administration that respects the diversity in faiths, including continuing with the holiday to mark the celebration of Isese Day.”

Senator Adeleke enjoins traditional religion worshippers to use the occasion of the celebration to pray for peace and progress of Osun State in particular, and Nigeria as a whole while admonishing them to be modest and responsible in the cause of the celebration.

He prays for a joyous celebrations and impresses on all Osun residents to remain assured that his administration will meet their yearnings.

Funmi Adekoya 

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Let’s believe God for a change in Nigeria’s circumstances – Cleric

By Web News 569

Nigeria can still rise above the current economic challenge.

Pastor Sunday Oyewo expressed optimism at a sermon to mark the first year thanksgiving ceremony of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Mount Zion Cathedral Bolumole, Ring Road 

Pastor Oyewo encouraged the masses to continue praying with faith in God to rescue the nation from the scourge of hunger and insecurity affecting the country 

“God is your shepherd you can never suffer from hunger and will always do His best to save His sheep from all the evil”

Also speaking, Chairperson Nigeria Association of Women Journalist, Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Jadesola Ajibola expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the association in the last year despite the economic challenges.

Comrade Ajibola while speaking on this year’s theme: Repositioning Women for Leadership Responsibilities’, said was high time for women to take responsibility

” Is to look back at the last one year and giving God the grace to be able to come before Him despite the economic challenges also our women should take up responsibility as a woman, perform your responsibility as a wife and in your place of work, as a woman we all have responsibility.”

 The Oyo NAWOJ chairperson, however, urged the government to give more room for women to participate in governance.

Funmilola Obagbayegun

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Govt Refunds Pilgrims who Missed Hajj

By Web News 534

The Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Muslim wing, Professor Sayed Malik has assured the State intending pilgrims who missed the 2022 Hajj of the Board’s readiness to refund their fares.

This is even as he further assured that those who do not wish to collect their money back will be given priority next year.

He revealed this while briefing journalists on the 2022 Hajj report recently in his office, at Olodo, Ibadan.

The Chairman, therefore, said the Board has commenced full payment to those who wish to take their money back irrespective of the

initial cost deduction for their inoculation, clothes, bags, and some other charges.

“The Executive Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has graciously approved the payment of full money without any deduction to whoever among them that intends to collect his/her money”, he said.

“His Excellency has also directed that those who want to use their money for the 2023 Hajj would be the first to be considered for the exercise, Prof. assured.

Professor Malik also said that the Board has embarked on another round of refunds of unspent funds from the 2022 Hajj fare to all Pilgrims that went with the Board for the Hajj exercise. 

He then called on the pilgrims, to visit the Account Section of the Board along with their receipts to claim their funds.

“All the pilgrims who performed the 2022 Hajj with the Board should come to Olodo Hajj Camp with their receipts for processing of the amount of money to be refunded.”

“Our Account Department is confirming the amount remaining, after deducting all their expenses. Whatever is remaining would be given to each pilgrim”, he said

Professor Malik noted that there were hitches in this year’s Hajj exercise but pledged that such hitches would not be allowed to re-occur in 2023.

“Lessons were learned in this year’s Hajj exercise. And these lessons will be put to use in the planning of next year’s exercise. I want to assure you that we will block all loopholes noticed in the 2022 hajj. In sha Allah, 2023 Hajj will be better in terms of planning and arrangements”, Professor Malik said.

He exonerated the Board from the unfortunate phenomenon encountered by this year’s Hajj while explaining that, “the inadequacies were not peculiar to Oyo State as they were experienced by the intending pilgrims in other States of the Federation. In fact, the problems were worse in some other states. This was why the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had to tender an apology to the State Pilgrims Welfare Boards and the Tour Operators.”

Professor Malik, however, stated that this year’s Hajj exercise was a success despite some hitches encountered before the exercise.

“I am happy to inform you that the 2022 Hajj exercise was eventually successful”

“In spite of the initial hiccups caused by the Saudi Authorities’ strict anti-COVID 19 protocols and the haphazard arrangements of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the hajj exercise was a success.

“Apart from the fact that the initial hitches were solved, there was no record of any casualty among the Oyo State Pilgrims throughout the period of the holy pilgrimage. All the Six hundred and Forty-One (641) pilgrims who performed the 2022 Hajj in Makkah returned safely”, affirmed Professor

He added that “all the pilgrims were given their Basic Traveling Allowances (BTA) in full. The initial complaints of a very few of the pilgrims were addressed as none of them was owed”.

The Board Chair charged those that have passports with the Board and have the intention to use them for another important thing, to come for it.

“All intending pilgrims who left their passports with the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board should come to Hajj Camp, Olodo to collect them 

Malik was full of thanks to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde for the massive support given to the Board by providing all the needed resources to ensure a smooth and hitch-free exercise.

“The success recorded in this year’s Hajj could not have been possible if not for the support we enjoyed from His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde. We, therefore, express our sincere gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency for the timely and invaluable moral and financial support he gave to the Board. 

“We are also grateful to the members of the Government Delegation under the table leadership of the Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun as well as the Head of Service, Alhaja Amidat Ololade Agboola for their immense contributions to this year’s Hajj exercise”, he concluded.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Religion

Hajj 2022: Last Batch of Oyo Pilgrims Arrives

By Web News 500

The last batch of Oyo State Pilgrims to return from Saudi Arabia has successfully arrived.

The batch of Sixty aboard Flynas XY7036 Airline which left Jedda Airport around 1:00am Nigerian time, landed at the Muritala Muhammad International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja, Lagos State exactly 6:50am.

The  Pilgrims were led by the Vice-chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare, Board Muslim Wing, Dr Ibrahim Adebolu.

While thanking Almighty Allah for the successful performance of the spiritual exercise, as no crime or casualty was recorded, Dr Adebolu also appreciate the unflinching support given to the Board by the Executive Governor of the State, Engineer Seyi Makinde for making the exercise an easy task for all the pilgrims.

Adebolu acknowledged the good conduct and cooperation of all the pilgrims from the State during the exercise.

He enjoined them to let the teachings of Hajj mirror their conduct in relating with others.

Recall that a total number of Six hundred and Fifty-five Pilgrims including officials were airlifted by Oyo State for the spiritual exercise in four batches.

The arrival of the fourth batch makes it the final batch expected to return from the Holy Land.

Oluwakayode Banjo

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Religion

3rd Batch of Oyo Pilgrims Arrives from Saudi Arabia

By Web News 735

The Third batch of Oyo State pilgrims that performed this year’s Hajj in Saudi- Arabia has arrived in Nigeria safely. 

The FLYNAS flight XY7126 which left King Abdul-Azeez International  Airport, Jeddah at 8. 18 am Saudi time arrived at Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Lagos around 11.20 am Nigerian time. 

The report says the State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim’s Wing) has made arrangements to ensure that the 229 pilgrims in the third batch are conveyed from Lagos to Ibadan.

Those who were in the same flight of 401 passengers with the third batch were   162 pilgrims from Edo State,  10 from Lagos State and 21 officials of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON. 

The first batch of pilgrims from Oyo State landed on the 20th of this month, (20th July) the second batch arrived last Wednesday ( 27th July) and the last batch is expected in the country during the week.

Our Correspondent,  Ridwan Fasasi reports that 20,950 pilgrims have so far returned to Nigeria through 48 flights while over 10,000  are still awaiting departure in Saudi- Arabia.

According to Chairman, NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah  Hassan the pilgrims’ departure had been in line with their arrival into the holy land. while he gave an assurance that the exercise would have been completed before the August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia. 

Rilwan Fasasi

Religion

Hijrah1444 AH: Makinde Celebrates Muslim Faithful

By Web News 477

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has felicitated Muslim faithful in the state and across the country on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1444 AH, which begins on Saturday July 30, 2022.

The governor, who wished Muslims in the state, Nigeria and across the world a New Year filled with blessings and benevolence of the Almighty Allah, asked them to continuously pray for the peace and prosperity of Nigeria.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor equally admonished Muslims to, in the spirit of the New Year, pray for a smooth and refreshing season in our country.

The governor said: “Hijrah (immigration to Madinah), no doubt, kindled the light of hope in the hearts of the early Muslims who set a shining example for all Muslims, in every generation to emulate.

It symbolises a new beginning.
“So, it is my prayer that all Muslims in Oyo State and the country will experience positive improvements and progress as the Hijrah 1444 AH begins.”

The statement further indicated that Governor Makinde congratulated the Muslim Ummah in the state on the opportunity to witness a new Islamic year, urging them not to relent in praying for the state and the country.

“Therefore, I enjoin the Muslim Ummah in the state to continue to show their dedication to the wellness of the state, by contributing their quota in different ways to its development”.

“Let me also assure all that this administration will continue to fulfil its promises to uplift the state and move its people from poverty to prosperity.

“I commend the Muslim Ummah for the immense contributions they continue to make to the progress of our dear state and wish them a successful and prosperous Hijrah 1444 AH.”

PR/Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Oyo Declares Monday Public Holiday to Mark Hijrah

By Web News 2248

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has announced Monday, Aug.1st, 2022, as a public holiday to commemorate the new Islamic year – Hijrah 1444 AH.

This was contained in a circular letter from the Office of the Secretary to the Oyo State Government and made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

The circular dated July, 28th, 2022 and signed by the SSG, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun, was titled: ‘Declaration of work-free day to mark Hijrah 1444 AH’.

According to the circular, Governor Seyi Makinde enjoined all and sundry to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and sustainability of the state in particular and the country in general

Iyabo Adebisi

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Religion

Muharram 1444 AH: Oyetola Declares Public Holiday for Celebration

By Web News 896

Osun State Government has declared Friday, as public holiday in commemoration of the commencement of the new Islamic year, Muharram 1444 AH.

This is contained in a statement issued and signed by the state Commissioner for Special Duties and the Supervising Commissioner for the Ministry of Home Affairs, Olalekan Badmus .

The statement urges Muslim faithful to use the opportunity provided by the public holiday for supplications and prayers for continued peace and progress of the state under the leadership of Governor Adegboyega Oyetola.

It equally enjoins all Muslims in the state not only to celebrate Hijrah but engage in spiritual soul searching in line with the essence of the occasion as exemplified by the virtues of the holy prophet of Allah, Muhammad, while on earth.

Abiodun Adeoye

Religion

Another Batch of Oyo Muslim Pilgrims Arrive Nigeria

By Web News 604

The second batch of Oyo State Pilgrims to this year’s Hajj has arrived Nigeria safely. 

The batch comprising 81 pilgrims arrived very early this morning alongside  345 pilgrims from Lagos State and 3 officials through FLYNAS flight XY7044.

Report says the State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim’s Wing) has made arrangements to ensure the pilgrims are conveyed from Lagos to Ibadan.

The first batch of pilgrims from the State landed in Nigeria last week Wednesday, 20th July.

The remaining batches of Oyo State comprising 250 pilgrims are expected to return to the country before the end of the month. 

Radio Nigeria correspondent in Saudi- Arabia reports that so far, 14,149 Nigerian pilgrims have been airlifted through 32 flights.

Ridwan Fasasi.

Religion

Over 30,000 Nigerian Pilgrims still in Saudi-Arabia

By Web News 715 Post a comment

Almost 2 weeks after this year’s Hajj exercise, 25 percent of Nigerian pilgrims have returned home.
Out of 41, 191 pilgrims that participated in the exercise,  10,502 have been airlifted back to Nigeria while 30,689 pilgrims are still in Saudi- Arabia. 

23 return flights have been recorded since the commencement of the exercise on 15th of July.
The latest to have returned safely to Nigeria via AZMAN flight ZQ2359 were 400 pilgrims from Yobe State and 2 from Bayelsa State. 

According to Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria,  NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah  Hassan the pilgrims’ departure has been in line with their arrival into the holy land. 

Alhaji Hassan who asked for the cooperation of other stakeholders gave an assurance that the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would have been completed before August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia.

 While few of the pilgrims who could afford going to Medinah had gone on their own others yet to visit the Prophet Muhammad’s city are still in Makkah waiting for mobilization by  NAHCON. 

Our Correspondent,  Ridwan Fasasi reports that some of the pilgrims used the time of their stay in Makkah to  perform as many Tawaf as possible in Kaaba to seek more favour from Allah.


Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

First Batch of Ogun Pilgrims Return From Saudi Arabia

By Web News 745

The first batch of pilgrims from Ogun State to Saudi Arabia returned to Nigeria after the completion of hajj rites.

The 400 pilgrims that comprise 167 males and 233 females arrived at Muritala Muhammad International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos at exactly sixteen minutes past ten in the evening on Wednesday.

Speaking with newsmen on the arrival, one of the Ad-hoc Committee members, Sheikh Isqeel Lawal, thanked God for his mercy and protection of the pilgrims throughout the spiritual exercise, stating that there was no case of death being recorded.

Sheikh Lawal, who is also the Consultant to the Governor on Islamic Affairs, commended Prince Dapo Abiodun for putting necessary machinery in place for a hitch-free operation and appreciated the pilgrims for their patience and perseverance.

Imploring the pilgrims to continue to pray for the peace of the State and the country, he encouraged them to sustain the lessons learnt during the pilgrimage especially the other four pillars of Islam seriously, as demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad.

Also, the Executive Secretary of the Board, Alhaji Salau Dauda, noted that the flight that would convey the remaining pilgrims had been scheduled without any further delay.

Speaking with journalists, some pilgrims including, Alhaji Rasak Mutiu and Alhaja Sanni Kehinde lauded the government for the welfare package put in place both in Nigeria and in Saudi  Arabia, noting the effort of the Board had made the pilgrimage seamless.

Olusegun Folarin

Religion

FRCN Ibadan Holds Interdenominational Prayer

By Web News 489

An Interdenominational prayer has been organised by the management of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Zonal Station for staff of the corporation.

The prayer, which dwelt on protection, spiritual consciousness and favour, was held at the Studio One of the Broadcasting House, Ibadan.

 Leading prayer, the Chief Missioner, Ansarudeen Society of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Dr Bashiru Olanrewaju noted that regardless of whatever occurs to man, God deserves human praise.

Dr Olanrewaju identified fear, hunger and inflation as some of the ways by which God test human faith.

Dr Olanrewaju noted that indiscipline and moral laxity accounted to some extent for human socio-economic crises and diseases; however, stressed the need for all to return to God and seek forgiveness of sin.

Similarly, leading prayer, Pastor in Charge, C.A.C Olorunkoseunti, Apata, Ibadan, Prophet Ayanfe Abraham emphasized the need for the staff to eschew sinful acts and always seek divine intervention.

 Prophet Abraham appealed to staffers to embark on regular medical care so as to remain healthy. 

Zonal Director FRCN, Ibadan Zonal station, Mrs Bolatito Joseph said the prayer was organized to further seek divine protection of staff in view of the hazards witnessed in the Corporation.

 Mrs Joseph, who appreciated the clerics for their prayers to overcome the challenges in the corporation, also enjoined members of staff always to ensure regular medical checks to remain healthy in their line of duty.

 Rotimi Famakin

Religion

Oyetola Welcomes 2022 Hajj Pilgrims

By Web News 398

Osun state governor, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has congratulated Hajj pilgrims from the State on the successful completion of this year’s Hajj exercise.

This is contained in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Ismail Omipidan.

Governnor Oyetola who welcomed the pilgrims back to the country from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, commended them for exhibiting the Omoluabi virtues as reflected in their conducts throughout the period of the Hajj exercise.

He also thanked God for granting all the pilgrims from the State a successful Hajj exercise and safe return to the country.

The Osun Governor equally extolled the management of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria and the State Pilgrims Welfare Board for their efforts at ensuing that the pilgrims had a hitch-free Hajj exercise.

Governor Oyetola noted that the successful return of the last batch of 155 pilgrims to Nigeria is a testament to his administration’s commitment to the general welfare and well-being of all and sundry.

He therefore implored all the pilgrims to continue to adhere strictly to the teachings and lessons of Hajj while asking Allah to reward them abundantly.

Abiodun Adeoye

Religion

First Batch of Oyo 2022 Hajj Pilgrims Return Home

By Web News 554

No fewer than 262 Oyo State pilgrims that took part in the 2022 holy pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia have landed in Nigeria safely.

The pilgrims arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday, July 20, 2022.

Some of the pilgrims thanked Almighty Allah for His mercy throughout the spiritual exercise

The aircraft conveying the pilgrims back to Nigeria took off at 2 am Nigerian time 

Recall that the first batch of the pilgrims from the state left Ibadan on Saturday 21st of May 2022 and were airlifted to holy lands about twenty hours later.

On the flight were some government functionaries including, the Head of the service, Alhaja Ololade Agboola, and the Executive Secretary of the Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Muhideen Olatunji, among others.

The remaining batches of Oyo State Pilgrims are expected to return to the country later.

Oluwakayode Banjo

Religion

2022 Hajj: NAHCON Decries Late Access to Information

By Web News 459

Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah Hassan says the lack of timely essential information is responsible for the difficulties experienced in this year’s Hajj exercise.

He stated this in Makkah at the closing ceremony of the 2022 Hajj season Organized by Tawafa Company for pilgrims of African non-Arab countries.

Alhaji Hassan said an early supply of Information would go a long way in enhancing effective preparations noting that major hitches experienced in this year’s Hajj was due to delayed messages. 

He decried the idea of getting vital information on Hajj on social media without any recourse to the formal channels of passing messages across to countries.

The NAHCON boss congratulated the government of the Kingdom of Saudi- Arabia for the successful 2022 Hajj exercise and commended the authorities for the facilities put in place which prevented the spread of COVID-19 infections.

Alhaji Hassan lauded the Saudi- Arabia authorities for the facilities upgrade at various sites used for the Hajj exercise stressing that the services were commendable. “.

Ridwan Fasasi

 

Religion

2022 Hajj: 1,782 Pilgrims Return to Nigeria

By Web News 402

1, 782 pilgrims have been airlifted back to Nigeria from Saudi- Arabia where they participated in this year’s Hajj exercise.

The pilgrims were airlifted through four flights with the inaugural return’-trip which commenced on Friday, 15th July with 423 pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory.

The latest flight MAXAIR NGL2002 departed Jeddah this morning with 515 pilgrims from Borno and 4 officials.

The last flight, FLYNAS XY7006, which departed yesterday left Jeddah to Lagos at 21:21hrs Nigeria time with 420 Osun State pilgrims and 9 Officials.

According to Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah Hassan the pilgrims’ departure would be in line with their arrival into the holy land.

Alhaji Hassan who asked for the cooperation of other stakeholders gave an assurance that the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would have been compjleted before August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia.

Our Correspondent, Ridwan Fasasi reports that 39,409 pilgrims are still in Saudi- Arabia awaiting their departure .

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Hajj 2022: First Return Flight Departs to Nigeria

By Web News 645

The first return flight for this year’s Hajj exercise in Saudi- Arabia left Jeddah Airport to Nigeria this morning.

The aeroplane, FLYNAS flight XY7002 departed Jeddah to Abuja with 423 FCT Pilgrims at 08:18hrs Saudi time, which was 06:18 am Nigerian time.

The plane is expected to land in Abuja around noon Nigerian time.

Chairman National Hajj Commission of Nigeria,  NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah  Hassan had earlier said the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria which began on Friday, 15th July would be on first-in, first-out basis. 

Alhaji Hassan who asked for the cooperation of other stakeholders gave an assurance that the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would have been completed before August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia. 

Pilgrims from Borno and Osun States are also expected to depart Saudi- Arabia today.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

3 Nigerian Pilgrims Die in Saudi- Arabia

By Web News 634

National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON has recorded 3 deaths out of 41,191 Nigerian pilgrims that participated in this year’s Hajj in Saudi- Arabia. 

NAHCON’s Head of Medical team, Dr Usman Galadima stated this in Makkah while presenting the report of the medical committee during the Post- Arafat Stakeholders’ meeting.

He said the affected ones were 2 females of 37 and 62 years from Kaduna and  Nasarawa  States while the remaining one was a 58- year old male pilgrim from Borno State. 

Dr Galadima noted that while the pilgrim from Borno State died in Muna, the one from Kaduna died at Arafah and the last pilgrim from Nasarawa State passed away in Makkah. 

He explained that they have all been buried according to Islamic rites in Saudi- Arabia while the families of the deceased had been notified of the incidents. 

The head of the medical team who did not disclose the cause of the deaths said 12, 152 patients were attended to at NAHCON’s clinics in 6 different centres. 

Chairman,  NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah  Hassan while briefing stakeholders on this year’s Hajj exercise said the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would begin on Friday,  15th July and would be on first-in, first-out basis. 

Alhaji Hassan who asked for the cooperation of other stakeholders gave an assurance that the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would have been completed before August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia. 

He noted that over 7,000 pilgrims that were yet to visit Medina would do so before returning to Nigeria. 

The Chairman,  Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs,  Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa reported that the Saudi- Arabia authorities had agreed that as from next year, Nigerian cooks would be mobilized earlier before the Hajj exercise to train Saudi cooks on how to prepare Nigerian local foods.

The Chairman,  House Committee on Pilgrims Affairs, Alhaji Abubakar Nalaraba who congratulated  NAHCON for a successful exercise said some countries could not make this year’s Hajj.

In a welcome address, Ambassador of Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi- Arabia,  Alhaji Yahya Lawal said all stakeholders involved in Hajj operations had learnt lessons from this year’s exercise and would work on such to make 2023 Hajj a better one.

 Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Airlift of Nigerian Pilgrims from Saudi Arabia Commences Friday

By Web News 508

The airlift of Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia back to the country will commence tomorrow, Friday 15th July.

Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON, Alhaji Zikirullah Hassan who stated this in Makkah during the Post- Arafat Stakeholders’meeting said the airlifting of pilgrims would be on first in, first out policy.

Alhaji Hassan who asked for the cooperation of other stakeholders gave an assurance that the airlifting of pilgrims back to Nigeria would have been completed before August 13 deadline given by Saudi Arabia. 

He noted that over 7,000 pilgrims that were yet to visit Medina would do so before returning to Nigeria. 

The Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa reported that the Saudi-Arabia authorities had agreed that as from next year, Nigerian cooks would be mobilized earlier before the Hajj exercise to train Saudi cooks on how to prepare Nigerian local foods.

The Chairman, House Committee on Pilgrims Affairs, Alhaji Abubakar Nalaraba who congratulated NAHCON for a successful exercise said some countries could not make this year’s Hajj.

In a welcome address, Ambassador of Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi- Arabia, Alhaji Yahya Lawal said all stakeholders involved in Hajj operations had learnt lessons from this year’s exercise and would work on such to make 2023 Hajj a better one.

During the presentations of committee reports, Head of Medical team, Dr Usman Galadima said 12, 152 patients were attended to while 3 pilgrims died during the exercise and they were from Nasarawa, Kaduna and Borno States.

 Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

2022 Hajj: NAHCON Takes Steps to Address Challenges Facing Pilgrims

By Web News 502

National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, NAHCON has taken steps to address some of the complaints of pilgrims in the ongoing Hajj exercise in Saudi- Arabia. 

.The NAHCON Chairman,  Alhaji Zikrullah Hassan stated this in the holy land while addressing the pilgrims at their different States’ camps.

He said a petition had been forwarded to Saudi- Arabia authorities for a refund of money over the poor and strange meals served to the pilgrims stressing that the commission was not responsible for the provision of food in Muna. 

” Nigerians are Nigerians everywhere they are. It doesn’t matter the sophistication of the environment,  they always preferred their local foods. But, we are not in control in Muna this year, it’s strictly the responsibilities of the host and the authorities have passed the information to Saudi that what our people want is Nigerian food and nothing more”.

Alhaji Hassan attributed the delayed flights and how efforts to bring other Nigerians to the holy were unsuccessful to the emergency nature of this year’s Hajj as the Commission had only 3 months to prepare. 

‘In the case of those who didn’t come,  we tried all we could. We actually had an understanding of a rescue but immediately the gate was formally closed by Saudi authorities,  the flight’s operators said there was nothing they could do. We will definitely give them top priority next year Inshallah”

” You should remember that I said it during the pre-Hajj preparations that this year’s exercise is emergency Hajj, therefore,  the pilgrims should bear with us as we are working hard to address noticeable lapses.”

What dominated the pilgrims’ complaints at all the camps visited was poor feeding services and the absence  of local meals at their tents in Muna 

The Ambassador of Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi- Arabia, Yahya Lawal who was part of the delegation of the Senate Committee on Foreign  Affairs that also visited the pilgrims said he was optimistic that all the complaints against the Saudi authorities regarding the Hajj operation would be positively addressed.

” Certainly these complaints are going to be taken up at the highest possible levels and I’m convinced something will be done and they would find remedies to such in future”.

The Chairman,  Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Adamu Bulkachuwa, said as part of oversight functions to NAHCON, he was on the ground to get the experiences of the pilgrims with a view to better such in future hajj operations.

“We want to see and  hear from you whatever we can do to make next year’s Hajj better.”

Senator Bulkachuwa said the reduction in Hajj quota to Nigeria was due to the COVID-19 pandemic adding that with time, the issue would be addressed which would be in favour of the country. 

” Nigeria used to come first or second or third in the number of pilgrims to Saudi- Arabia many years back. But now that we have some reliefs from COVID-19,  Saudi authorities will listen to us”.

Ridwan Fasasi

Religion

Pilgrims back in Makkah after 5 days under Tents in Muna

By Web News 649

Many Pilgrims participating in the ongoing Hajj exercise today returned to their base in Makkah after the symbolic throwing of the last set of stones at the devil at Jamrah. 

While some left for Makkah after the throwing of stones at Jamrah, others left for their tents in Muna where buses later conveyed them back to Makkah. 

However, some pilgrims might still stay back in Muna if they were not convinced that all the stones they threw at Jamrah touched the walls and would have to repeat the exercise tomorrow before leaving for Makkah. 

.While in Makkah the pilgrims are expected to continue with the circumambulation of Kaaba called Tawaf as well as running from Safar to Marwa, which symbolized the struggle of Prophet Ibraham’s wife, Hajar while looking for water in the desert for her thirsty son before Allah ordered spring out, which is the origin of today’s healing water called Zam-zam.

After completion of the rites in Kaaba either today or tomorrow, pilgrims have now completed the Hajj rites and are free to remove the white garments they put on the past few days.

Our Correspondent, Ridwan Fasasi reports that those who have not visited the mosque of Prophet  Muhammad in Medina could now do so while those who have been there earlier would be preparing for farewell circumambulation when they were ready to depart Saudi- Arabia. 

Rilwan Fasasi