Lagos Angle

Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat Pray With Lagos Pilgrims on Arafah Day

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr. Kadiri Hamzat joined the 1,600 Lagos pilgrims performing this year's Hajj in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia in a prayer session on the Mount Arafah.

The Governor and his Deputy who made separate video calls to the state’s pilgrims as they performed the core Hajj rite congratulated the pilgrims on reaching Arafah and prayed for a rewarding and accepted Hajj. He also prayed for their safety on the return journey.

Deputy Governor Hamzat prayed for the pilgrims and urged them not to take the privilege for granted, describing Hajj as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be guarded jealously.

The pilgrims expressed appreciation for the calls and prayed for the success of the Sanwo-Olu administration, for Dr. Hamzat’s victory as the incoming Governor, and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general elections.

In his remark, Amir-ul-Hajj and Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode thanked the Governor and Deputy Governor for connecting with the pilgrims, stressing that the gesture showed their compassion and commitment to the welfare of the 1,600 Lagos pilgrims.

Layode also commended the pilgrims for their good conduct and explained that the return schedule for Lagos pilgrims will begin on June 6, in line with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria’s timetable while assuring that all pilgrims would be airlifted within a week.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Abdullahi Jebe, praised the pilgrims for being orderly and law-abiding.

He also thanked the Governor his Deputy for finding time to call and pray for them, while also commending Saudi authorities for improvements at the Arafah camps, including the provision of more functional air conditioners, toilets, and adequate water supply.

On his part, Board Secretary of the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr. AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin, appreciated the State Government for making the Hajj operation seamless and convenient, saying that free medical screening, inoculation, payment for Ihram clothing and Hady ram, and visa processing among others programmes were put in place to make the exercise stress-free for Lagos pilgrims.

Hajj 2026: Lagos pilgrims tour Makkah’s historical sites ahead of main rites

About 800 Lagos State pilgrims accommodated in House 1 began pre-Hajj ziyarah of historical sites in Makkah on Tuesday, as part of the itinerary organized by the Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for the 2026 Hajj.

Dressed in green and black ankara fabrics, the pilgrims visited Jabal Thawr, where Prophet Muhammad and Abu Bakr took refuge during the Hijrah; Jabal Nur, the site of the first revelation; and Mount Arafah, traditionally associated with the meeting of Prophet Adam and Hawwa after their expulsion from Paradise.

The group also toured Mina, where pilgrims will stay for at least five days during the main Hajj rites; Muzdalifah, where pilgrims spend the night and collect pebbles; and the Jamarat area, the site of the symbolic stoning of the devil.

Officials said the visits allow pilgrims to see the sites firsthand and understand their significance before the main rites begin, noting that Mount Arafah may be difficult to access on the Day of Arafah due to the large crowds expected.

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Kabir Olawale Paramole, Chairman of the Dawah and Enlightenment Sub-Committee, said the sites highlight the historical and spiritual foundations of Islam.

“As you can see, Lagos State pilgrims went on the visitation as a united body and returned as a united body,” Paramole said. “The Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has not disappointed us. Islam is a religion of peace with historical and spiritual sites that show it is a divinely-given religion from Allah to Prophet Muhammad.”

Pilgrim Rafiu Williams commended the state government’s arrangements in Makkah.

“I must commend the Lagos State Government. They have performed brilliantly, especially here in Makkah,” Williams said. “There are areas that need improvement, but overall, they have tried. My experience with state and local government officials has been excellent. They are knowledgeable, resourceful, and helpful. I rate them 8.5 to 9 out of 10.”

Ziyarah will continue on Wednesday, May 20, for pilgrims accommodated in Houses 2 and 3.

After completing the visits, pilgrims will remain in Makkah until their movement to Mina on Sunday, May 24, corresponding to 7th Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, for the start of the main Hajj rites.

Dr. Ahmad Abdullahi Jebe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman of the 2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, urged pilgrims to conserve energy, stay hydrated, and prioritize their health.

Board Secretary AbdulHakeem Ajomagberin added that the state government has secured Category A+ tents in Mina and Arafah for pilgrims’ comfort. He advised pilgrims to follow all instructions and pray for an accepted Hajj.

Hajj 2026: Lagos Concludes Pilgrims Airlift To Makkah

Lagos State Government has completed the airlifting of the 2026 Hajj intending pilgrims from Nigeria to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

This process has brought the total number of Lagos State pilgrims so far in the Kingdom to 1,590 out of the 1,600 originally scheduled for the spiritual journey.

The fourth and the last batch departed from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, on Tuesday, May 12 and Wednesday, May 13, 2026, with 418 pilgrims, comprising 222 males and 196 females, while the fifth and final batch arrived with 145 pilgrims which comprised of 72 males and 73 females.

Meanwhile, the pilgrims on the second and third flights have left the city of Madinah for Makkah on Thursday, for the continuation of the Hajj rites.

In accordance with the Hajj requirements, the pilgrims who left Madinah in the state of hiram (two white pieces of clothes), stopped briefly at the Miqat (a reserved area) on the outskirts of Madinah, to observe two rakaats of nafilat and say their Niyyah (intention to perform Unrah) in the Kaabah, Makkah.

Immediately on arrival at Makkah, the pilgrims are expected to join millions of other adherents in performing the Tawaful qudoom (circumambulation of the Kaabah) and running the Sa’i (Safa and Marwa) seven times each, respectively.

Having completed this exercise, the pilgrims are expected to cut their hairs and return to their hotel/accommodation, to change from the state of hiram to their ordinary clothing.

The pilgrims on the forth and fifth flights are expected to depart Madinah between Saturday and Sunday, to join other Lagos State contingents in Makkah, for the real Hajj rites which begins from 8th Dhul-Hijah, the twelfth month in the Islamic calendar.

Lagos signs 19 accelerators for N10bn MSME fund disbursement

Lagos State Government has onboarded 19 accelerators to drive the implementation of the N10 billion Lagos State Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (LASMECO), a single-digit interest, non-collateral financing scheme targeted at cooperative-based Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The signing ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment (MCCTI) in Alausa, Ikeja, marked the formal commencement of the programme’s application and processing phase for eligible cooperative societies across the state.

Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, described the selection of the accelerators as rigorous, transparent and merit-driven, noting that competence, innovation, technical capacity and alignment with the state’s economic development agenda guided the process.

According to her, the selected organisations possess the expertise and institutional strength required to provide enterprise support services, capacity building, monitoring and accountability mechanisms that would ensure the success of the initiative.

“You will provide rigorous enterprise support services, strengthen the capacity of beneficiaries, uphold accountability and transparency in every transaction touched by your platforms, and ensure every deserving entrepreneur receives the guidance required to build sustainable and competitive businesses,” she said.

Ambrose-Medebem explained that LASMECO was established to bridge financing gaps affecting cooperative-based MSMEs, deepen financial inclusion across all local governments and LCDAs in Lagos, strengthen cooperative institutions and unlock the productive capacity of entrepreneurs constrained by limited access to capital.

She noted that the partnership with the Bank of Industry reflects the power of strategic collaboration in driving economic growth and building an inclusive, innovation-driven economy.

The commissioner added that beyond access to finance, the initiative would provide mentorship, business development support, market access opportunities and institutional strengthening for beneficiaries.

She said the programme aligns with the economic agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu aimed at stimulating industrial growth, reducing unemployment, empowering women and youth entrepreneurs, and expanding the productive base of local enterprises.

Ambrose-Medebem stressed that accountability, transparency and measurable impact remain central to the implementation of the scheme, adding that every fund disbursed must translate into business expansion, job creation and improved livelihoods for Lagos residents.

Permanent Secretary of MCCTI, Babatunde Onigbanjo, urged stakeholders to remain committed to ensuring the programme delivers measurable economic impact across communities, markets and industries in the state.
Also speaking, Regional Manager, South-West, Bank of Industry, Richard Imonije, and Project Manager of Sterling Bank Plc, Paul Olatoye, pledged the support of their institutions toward the successful implementation of the initiative.

Chief Executive Officer of Watershed Capital Limited, Dr. Olumuyiwa Olanrewaju, commended the state government for the opportunity and assured stakeholders of the accelerators’ commitment to ensuring the programme succeeds.

ATTENTION!!!

THE LAGOS STATE MINISTRY OF TOURISM ART AND CULTURE presents the second edition of Lagos State Eko Schools Arts and Crafts Competition for Secondary Schools and Tertiary Institutions.

Registration starts on Monday, 4th May 2026 and will come to a close on Monday, 25th May 2026.

Prospective students can register for the competition. via: portal:https://www.ekoschoolsartsandcrafts.com

The theme for this year is: This is Lagos!

Don't miss it!!!

Hajj 2026: 343 Lagos Inaugural flight land in Madinah, Saudi Arabia

About 343 Lagos State intending pilgrims to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for this year's Hajj exercise have landed safely at the King AbdulAzeez International Airport, Madinah, Saudi Arabia.

The inaugural flight of the state had 169 males and 174 females on board Flynas Airline airbus XY8504.

The flight which took off from the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, at 6:26pm on Friday, May 8, 2026, marks another significant milestone in the State’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience for her pilgrims.

Commissioner for Home Affairs and Amir-ul- Hajj, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Layode assured that the pilgrims and their families that the State would make their welfare a top priority whilst in the kingdom.

According to him, “The Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has given approval for necessary arrangements to ensure that pilgrims receive adequate support both here in Nigeria and in Saudi Arabia. We encourage all pilgrims to remain law-abiding, prayerful, and be worthy Ambassadors of Lagos State and Nigeria throughout their stay in the Holy Land”.

In his remark, Commissioner for Operations, Inspectorate, and Licensing at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) Anofiu Elegushi, commended the seamless organization of the airlifting process and praised the intending pilgrims for their patience and discipline.

He said, “Today’s successful airlift is a reflection of the tireless efforts put in place by the State Government and NAHCON. We are delighted that the pilgrims are departing in an atmosphere of peace, orderliness, and proper coordination. We pray for a successful Hajj exercise and safe return for everyone”.

In the same vein, Special Adviser to the Governor on Islamic Matters and Chairman Y2026 Hajj Ad-hoc Committee, Dr. Abdullahi Jebe, described the commencement of the airlifting exercise as encouraging and commendable.

He said that the successful departure of the first batch, demonstrated the State’s commitment to excellence. He extended appreciation to the Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat; NAHCON officials; stakeholders; Flynas Airline officials, Federal Airpot Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); security agencies, and the intending pilgrims for their cooperation, praying that the entire Hajj operation shall be hitch-free and successful.

Some of the pilgrims who spoke with journalists also expressed their delight and satisfaction with the level of preparation, coordination, and cooperation received from the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, stressing that the smooth take-off of the first batch reflects the dedication of the State Government, towards providing quality welfare services, safety, and comfort for all the pilgrims throughout the Hajj operations.

Recall that Lagos State has 1,600 intending pilgrims who will be performing this year’s spiritual exercise. The airlifting exercise will continue on Sunday, May 10, 2026, with the departure of the second and third batches. The fourth batch is scheduled to depart on Tuesday, May 12, while the last and final batch will leave on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.

Lagos Cracks Down on Unsafe Elevators, Gas Shops as Govt Shifts to Strict Enforcement

The Lagos State Government has moved from advice to enforcement, sealing at least 12 facilities and shutting over 150 illegal gas shops in a renewed push to restore safety standards in Nigeria’s most vibrant city.

The tough stance emerged during the latest _Ask Lagos_ X Space discussion, where the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso and the General Manager of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola represented by his Technical Adviser, described as a “zero maintenance culture” among facility managers despite the availability of world-class technology in Lagos high-rises.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, , said the recent wave of building closures was triggered by recurring safety failures, including a fatal lift crash at General Hospital Odan and a Banana Island incident where residents were trapped in an elevator for more than an hour.

“There’s a disconnect between the world-class technology we have in Lagos and the ‘zero’ maintenance culture practiced by facility managers,” Omotoso said. “Many property owners prioritize profit over life safety, viewing maintenance as an optional expense.”

He listed common failures as jerking movements, doors failing to open, and non-functional emergency alarms — all of which he said will no longer be tolerated.

Technical Adviser Mr. Seun Awojobi said the Lagos State Safety Commission has adopted the European N81 safety standard as its regulatory benchmark.

Awojobi said key requirements include mandatory bi-annual inspections by certified regulators and monthly maintenance logs performed by Original Equipment Manufacturers. He added that Automatic Rescue Devices must now be installed to ensure lifts reach the next floor during power outages.

Every elevator must also display a “Certificate of Compliance.” He urged citizens to report buildings without the certificate, stressing that owners must register equipment at lasgsafetyreg.com. Following a March 31 deadline, the Commission sealed 12 facilities in Lekki and Ikeja for non-compliance.

Awojobi said the Commission now operates under a four-pillar mandate themed the the Four E's which includes Educate, Engage, Evaluate, and Enforce_. The approach includes continuous risk assessment before accidents “crystallize” and legal action, including building closures, to ensure order.

The state is also leading by example. “We have decommissioned all uncertified lifts at the Alausa Secretariat and are currently replacing outdated equipment in General Hospitals,” Awojobi confirmed.

Architect Amun-ra, who joined the call, challenged officials on enforcement integrity, alleging that some developers “pay for express” to obtain safety signs without proper inspections.

The Commission acknowledged the gap, admitting it is “not all-seeing” and explicitly calling for whistleblowing. Once a professional reports a site, he said, the legal burden shifts to the state to act.

Beyond elevators, the space highlighted broader safety threats in the megacity. Over 150 illegal gas decanting shops — where gas is transferred between cylinders — were shut down in three months. The state now permits only certified “Cylinder Exchange” operations in well-ventilated shops.

On emergency response, Awojobi said 25% of Lagos students have been trained in CPR, and no hotel or bar will receive a safety certificate unless at least two staff members are First Aid/CPR certified.

According to him, the state’s rapid response system now integrates LASEMA, the Fire and Rescue Service, and the Command and Control Centre, with a target response time of 15–20 minutes managed through a centralized Alausa tracking system. Citizens were reminded to call 767 or 112 for emergencies, including being trapped in elevators, and 08181002233 for non-emergency safety escalations on weekdays.

Tourism Ministry Honours Staff For Efficient Advocacy On Digital Platform

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has recognised 15 dedicated staff members for their active support in promoting the Ministry’s activities on the official Lagostourism social media platforms.

The Lagos State Permanent Secretary,Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, presented cash tokens to the staff on Tuesday, 5th May 2026, in appreciation of their consistent engagement through likes, shares, and posts that help showcase Lagos tourism to global audiences.

Speaking at the presentation in Alausa, Ikeja, Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila said the gesture was aimed at encouraging a culture of digital advocacy within the Ministry and strengthening internal ownership of the Lagos tourism narrative.

"Every like, share, and post from our staff amplifies Lagos culture and tourism to the world. You are our first digital ambassadors,” she said.

The Permanent Secretary urged all management and staff to sustain the momentum, emphasizing that digital participation is now a vital part of public service and destination branding.

" We must all take pride in telling the Lagos story. Our collective voice online builds visibility, attracts visitors, and strengthens our reputation as Africa’s creative and tourism capital,” she added.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to fostering digital participation among staff as part of its strategy to position Lagos as a leading tourism and cultural destination.

THIS IS LAGOS ❤️