NEWS
Hajj 2023: Kwara State Sets Date For First Batch Of Hajj Pilgrims
The Kwara Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced that the initial group of prospective pilgrims from the state will be transported by air to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on May 26th.
Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdukadri, the executive secretary of the board, made the announcement during an enlightenment program for prospective pilgrims held at Gerewu in Adewole Area, Ilorin.
Furthermore, Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdukadri stated that the distribution of bags and uniforms for the pilgrims is scheduled to commence on May 24th.
Additionally, he mentioned that the vaccination process for the pilgrims would take place on May 23rd.
In his address, Mr. Abdulkadri emphasized the importance of the intending pilgrims adhering to the laws and maintaining sincere intentions of serving God during their journey.
However, he also cautioned them against engaging in any activities that could tarnish Nigeria’s reputation.
“We enjoin you to avoid fighting with anybody, avoid indecent dressing and avoid the use of abusive words in the holy land,” he said.
Dr Abdulkadir Sambaki also advised intending pilgrims to be law-abiding and conscious of Allah in all their undertakings while in Nigeria and the holy land.
“They should abide by the law of Nigeria and Saudi Arabia authorities because there is no room for disobedience for all intending pilgrims,” he said.
According to Alhaji Abdulsalam Abdukadri, a total of 3,740 pilgrims from the state are expected to participate in this year’s Hajj.
Hajia Abibat Babaita, the officer in charge of the Ilorin airport’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), also issued a warning to the intending pilgrims regarding the transportation of illicit drugs to Saudi Arabia.
She strongly advised against carrying banned substances such as cocaine, lexotan, tramadol, and other contraband drugs.
Ms. Babaita emphasized that if any intending pilgrim requires prescribed medication, they should bring along a valid doctor’s prescription and ensure they do not possess quantities that could be deemed as commercial.
During his lecture, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, the Grand Khadi of Kwara, provided valuable advice to all prospective pilgrims.
He encouraged them to fulfill their responsibilities by returning any borrowed or entrusted belongings to their rightful owners before embarking on their journey to Saudi Arabia.
He emphasized that the outcome of their return is ultimately in the hands of God.
Furthermore, Mr. Kamaldeen stressed the importance of settling any outstanding debts before departing for the holy land.
He suggested either paying off the debts or ensuring they are properly documented for the family to handle in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.
Additionally, the Grand Khadi urged the intending pilgrims to reconcile any conflicts or misunderstandings they may have with others before undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage.
He emphasized the significance of embarking on the sacred journey with a clear conscience and harmonious relationships.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, to ₦970 per litre for oil marketers.
This new price, effective immediately, marks a ₦20 decrease from the refinery’s previous ex-depot price of ₦990 per litre, which was set earlier this month.
In a statement released on Sunday, Anthony Chiejina, the refinery’s Chief Branding and Communications Officer, explained that the price reduction is a way for the company to express its appreciation to Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a reality.
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“This decision is our way of thanking Nigerians for their unwavering support in making the refinery a dream come true,” Chiejina said.
The statement also highlighted the refinery’s gratitude towards the Nigerian government, acknowledging the role of government measures in supporting domestic businesses.
“In addition, this is to thank the government for their support, as this will complement the measures put in place to encourage domestic enterprise for our collective well-being,” the statement read.
Despite the price cut, the refinery reassured consumers that there would be no compromise on the quality of its products. “While the refinery would not compromise on the quality of its petroleum products, we assure you of best quality products that are environmentally friendly and sustainable,” the statement added.
The company also committed to ramping up production to meet domestic fuel consumption and alleviate concerns over potential supply shortages.
“We are determined to keep ramping up production to meet and surpass our domestic fuel consumption; thus, dispelling any fear of a shortfall in supply,” the statement concluded.
The price reduction is expected to save marketers approximately ₦20 per litre on purchases from the refinery’s Lekki-based plant.
Simon Ekpa, a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent and a controversial figure in the Biafran separatist movement, has dismissed his self-styled title of “Prime Minister of Biafra” as inconsequential.
Speaking during legal proceedings at the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland, Ekpa stated, “I am just a content creator; the issue of Prime Minister of Biafra is not serious.”
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Ekpa’s statement comes in the wake of his arrest by Finnish authorities on charges related to incitement of terrorism.
The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has accused Ekpa of public incitement to commit crimes with terrorist intent.
The arrest stems from an incident in Lahti on August 23, 2021, and officials are also seeking the detention of four other suspects linked to the case.
“The detention demands are related to a preliminary investigation in which a Finnish citizen of Nigerian descent, born in the 1980s, is suspected of public incitement to commit a crime with terrorist intent,” the NBI said in a statement.
Ekpa, who has used his social media platforms to advocate for Biafran independence, has been a divisive figure in Nigeria’s southeast region.
His rhetoric and actions, including calls for economic shutdowns through “sit-at-home” orders, have been linked to widespread unrest and disruptions in the region.
The National Assembly management team, led by Clerk Sani Magaji Tambawal, has ramped up efforts to ensure a seamless presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event, scheduled for a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives, is regarded as a significant moment in Nigeria’s legislative calendar.
Preparations include a thorough inspection of the assembly chambers to ensure all facilities are fully functional.
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Deputy Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, who is overseeing the technical arrangements, confirmed that key systems, including microphones, sound equipment, and other audio-visual tools, have been tested to ensure smooth communication during the session.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that the National Assembly is fully prepared to receive Mr. President and provide a conducive environment for this significant moment in our democratic process,” Ogunlana stated.
Seating arrangements are also being finalized to accommodate lawmakers, government officials, and other dignitaries expected at the session.
Security measures are being reviewed in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. Meanwhile, press accreditation is being managed to facilitate effective media coverage.
The 2025 budget presentation is expected to highlight the government’s economic priorities while reinforcing the partnership between the executive and legislative arms of government.
As the session approaches, the National Assembly has expressed its commitment to upholding Nigeria’s democratic values and providing a platform for transparent governance.
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